What is Speech/Language Therapy for Seniors?
Speech therapists use various methods in speech/ language pathology to address a variety of issues related to difficulty speaking or swallowing due to physical and/or neurological impairment. This can be caused by a stroke, other illness, injury, surgery, or general complications from aging. The goal of speech therapy is to address:
- Speech and communication difficulties
- Issues with Cognition
- Dementia symptoms
- Inability to swallow
- Difficulties reading and/or writing
One of the main reasons Speech therapy is vital for a senior is so that they can effectively communicate. Being able to convey their level of pain or discomfort, general needs, or personal concerns with their physician, family, friends and/or caregivers is crucial for a seniors overall health and well-being.
What Do Speech Therapists for Seniors Do?
Our Studio City rehabilitation center is equipped with a team of licensed OT’s and their assistants. They work alongside each patient and their physician(s) to form an individualized treatment plan.
Speech and Language pathologists perform various neurological assessments in order to determine the root cause of a swallowing or speech issue in order to create an optimized treatment program.
Cognitive Linguistic therapy is a method used by Speech therapists in order to improve both muscle and cognitive strength and capability so that neurological connections are established and reinforced.
Individualized Speech Therapy Treatment Plans
Speech therapy can become a necessity for a senior due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is Aphasia. This is a condition that is often due to a stroke or other TBI which has resulted in damage to the area in the brain which controls speech. Early intervention for injuries such as these is crucial to recovering the neurological connections lost from aphasia-causing injuries and medical events.
Another common reason speech therapy is recommended for a senior is due to general aging complications. As we get older, muscles can become weak and too elastic. When this occurs in muscles in the mouth and throat, it can develop issues with swallowing and speaking, lessening an individual’s ability to feed themselves and communicate properly.
Individualized treatment plans for speech therapy at Studio City include cognitive linguistic therapy, dysphagia therapy, or various vocal exercises.
Speech Therapy Rehabilitation Center in Studio City
Specialized equipment and technologies are often unavailable outside of rehabilitation centers and It is always best to have the guidance of a physician while in recovery. At Studio City, we offer a range of adaptive technology and our treatment plans are individualized and created by licensed speech therapy specialists.
You’ll never be alone on your recovery journey at our Studio City Senior Rehab home. Our team of caring professionals helps each and every individual every step of the way.