Communication skills can be assisted at all ages
Communication includes speaking, hearing, listening, understanding, reading, writing, using your voice and social skills. A decline in communication skills can affect community involvement, relationships and independence. Many older Australians live with communication disorders that impacts their ability to express their wants and needs.
Role of a speech pathologist
Speech pathologists are experts in assessing and managing communications and swallowing disorders. A speech pathologist can do a comprehensive assessment and work with you to be your best. They can also liaise with your medical team and family to give you additional support.
Areas of support include
- Voice – how loud you talk, what you sound like and talking smoothly without stuttering
- Language – difficulty speaking or writing in sentences, or understanding instructions, following stroke or brain injury
- Articulation – clear production of speech sounds. Assistance after surgery e.g. for throat cancer
- Social Communication – affects quality of life and difficulty communicating at meal times
- Dyspraxia – unclear speech due to muscle incoordination or planning difficulties
- Dysarthria – slurred or unclear speech due to muscle weakness or incoordination
- Dysphagia – difficulties with eating, drinking and/or swallowing
Need support?
If you would like to find out more, you can give our friendly team a call today on 1800 773 722
