How Does Speech Therapy Help with Dementia & Cognitive Challenges? 

Many people still think of Physical Therapy when the term “therapy” is brought up as we all age and various challenges come into play over the years. Some of us and our loved ones will join independent living communities or be admitted to assisted living facilities. Others are preparing for surgery and rehab, which all point to “Physical Therapy.” However, there are other types of therapy that can be beneficial as one ages and/or encounters various challenges.

One of those areas of specialty is Speech Therapy (ST), and it can greatly help improve quality of life for someone with dementia or another type of cognitive decline, even if more on the mild side of the spectrum.

Did You Know?

ST doesn’t only treat loss of speech and language function as many people think. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help with dementia and other ranges of cognitive loss through education on current day-to-day functioning as well as what life may look like in the future.

How?

By offering support through various methods including nonverbal communication strategies, SLPs can create and implement different strategies to help individuals experiencing cognitive decline by boosting independence and quality of life, even with the limitations of their current abilities.

Here is an example of how the ST process works:

• Speech Therapy (ST) begins with an assessment to define one’s needs and the best treatment plan for them.
• ST exercises for adults can help with language, speech, communication and cognitive communication and function.
• The treatment may include problem solving, memory and organization exercises as well as other thinking skills.

Remember, it is ideal to seek out ST at the very first signs of cognitive decline. Medicare supports this type of therapy specifically because…it works!

If you or a loved one is experiencing any memory loss—whether mild or more severe—please do not hesitate to contact us today to learn more!

Email Crystal at crystal.black@mobility-rehab.com or call us at the Clermont office: 352-243-4422 or reach one of us directly: Hilary’s cell: 813-690-2687; Crystal’s cell: 407-432-0137.

We’ll be glad to speak with you more in detail about your questions and will help find the information you need as soon as possible.

Remember, everyone is different. One person may experience mild cognitive impairment, while others are already facing some form of dementia. Regardless of the situation or cognitive level, it is better to reach out, investigate all your options, and do all that you possibly can to improve quality of life. We are here for you when you need us!

“Yesterday is the past, tomorrow’s the future, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.” 

-Bill Keane-