The capacity to communicate effectively is crucial at any age, especially for seniors whose speech may be impaired due to age or sickness. Aside from the social consequences of speech impairment, emergency circumstances might arise when a senior is unable to convey pain, discomfort, or other issues.
Fortunately, specialist speech treatment for older adults is available, and it offers many benefits other than improved communication. Continue reading to learn more about the five benefits of speech therapy.
Improves Ability to Swallow
Another effect of aging muscles is a decreased capacity to swallow, which raises the risk of choking on food. Chewing and swallowing problems are frequent in older adults, and speech therapy can help with this as well. This treatment may also aid in lowering the risk of choking. Speech therapy’s strengthening impact on the vocal cords, larynx, and jaw muscles can enhance the swallowing reflex and promote comfort and safety during meals.
Improves Quality of Life
Communication is essential for both practical and social reasons, which is why many seniors with untreated speech disorders are vulnerable to isolation and medical concerns. Improving a senior’s capacity to communicate will improve their safety, health, and quality of life that comes from participating in social activities.
Strengthens Vocal Cords
The vocal cords, like many other areas of our bodies, lose elasticity as we age, weakening the larynx muscles and making speech more difficult. Although speech therapy cannot “repair” the suppleness of the vocal cords, specialized vocal exercises can strengthen them and enhance the communication quality.
Treats Memory Loss and Dementia
Seniors suffering from memory loss and dementia may benefit from speech therapy even if their speaking abilities are normal. Speech therapy aids in the maintenance of brain processes associated with communication while also addressing cognitive aspects of communication such as attention and problem-solving. Therapists can also assist loved ones by teaching them how to interact more effectively with elderly people who are experiencing memory loss.
Improvement For Those Who Have Experienced a Stroke
Aphasia is a communication problem that impairs a person’s capacity to communicate. It is a common language disability following a stroke. A stroke can impair the portion of the brain that governs speech function, which can have varying effects depending on where the damage is. Speech therapy is frequently prescribed shortly after a stroke. Speech can be recovered after a stroke, but it is critical to begin therapy as soon as possible to enhance the chances of recovery.
Lead a Comfortable Senior Lifestyle at TerraBella Salisbury
Choose the same community that locals and families have chosen for more than 20 years for unrivaled care, great value, and exceptional living quality: TerraBella Salisbury!
Our neighborhood and the surrounding region, located just minutes from historic downtown Salisbury, provide residents with access to first-rate entertainment and healthcare professionals, as well as a variety of modern amenities that make living easier and more enjoyable.
If you are interested, please contact us as soon as possible to arrange for a free tour of the community.
