Speech-language pathologists, SLPs for short, are the professionals your dad will work with when he requires speech therapy. They do more than you might imagine. An SLP works with children and adults of all ages to help them with one or more of these problems.
- Cognitive skills/processing: The thought processes needed to analyze, create a response, problem solve, use memory skills, and get organized.
- The flow of speech: The way speech flows and is timed to be understandable, especially helpful for stuttering issues.
- Language comprehension: The ability to understand and process what’s being said and how to respond appropriately.
- Socialization: The skills needed to interact with others in different settings like a store, restaurant, family gathering, ball game, etc.
- Speech sounds/enunciation: The way you speak and put different sounds together to be clear and understandable.
- Swallowing: The management of muscles needed to swallow food or saliva without choking or inhaling something into the windpipe where it could lead to aspiration pneumonia.
- Voice: The way your voice sounds and how to avoid straining the vocal cords by being too hoarse, loud, or whispery.
What Training Do SLPs Receive?
Speech-language pathologists begin their path with an undergraduate degree in science and with courses focused on speech-language pathology. A BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a good start.
After an undergraduate degree is achieved, an SLP enters into a master’s program in speech-language pathology. A master’s program usually takes another two years to complete, as well as requiring hands-on training in an active speech therapy clinic.
An SLP takes courses that range from Hearing Rehabilitation to Voice Disorders. They learn how to help the hearing impaired, people with autism spectrum disorders, and people who have neurodegenerative conditions.
Classroom learning is practiced in clinics under supervision to ensure they master the material. This makes it possible for them to help an elderly stroke victim just as much as they can help a developing child. Being trained to help older adults who may be moodier and frustrated by the loss of speech is essential.
When Would Your Dad Need Speech Therapy Services?
When would you want to arrange speech therapy for your dad? Health issues like Alzheimer’s, hearing loss, and a stroke are all reasons. If communication skills would be improved by an SLP, it’s worth arranging the consultation.
Whether your dad had a stroke and is struggling to swallow and speak or he has dementia and is slowly losing speech and swallowing skills, speech therapy is essential. It will help him with communication for as long as possible or regain the skills that the damage to the brain caused.
Arrange speech therapy after talking to his doctors. His doctors can advise you on the benefits of speech therapy, what to expect as your dad recovers or progresses, and what other home therapy services may benefit him.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Speech Therapy in Gainesville, VA please contact the caring staff at Passion Home Health Solutions LLC today at. 703-462-9141
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