1. Why do people say they can’t hear me even when I feel like I’m talking loudly?  Parkinson’s can change how your brain senses loudness. You may feel like you’re speaking normally even when your voice is soft.

2. Why has my voice become softer?  Many people with Parkinson’s notice their voice gets quieter or weaker because Parkinson’s affects how strongly the speech muscles move.

3. What is LSVT LOUD?  LSVT LOUD is a speech therapy program that helps you speak louder and more clearly.

4. How does LOUD! help?  It trains you to use a stronger, healthier voice. Most importantly, it helps your brain relearn what normal loudness feels like.

5. What happens during LOUD! sessions?  You practice speaking loudly with exercises, words, sentences, and real-life phrases.

6. How long does the program take?  LSVT LOUD is typically 4 days a week for 4 weeks, with daily homework. Further therapy is usually not required, as improvements are lasting with continued practice/

7. Will speaking louder hurt my voice?  No. The exercises use healthy loudness, not shouting.

8. Can LOUD! help with swallowing or facial expression?  Yes, some people have improvements in facial expressions and swallowing as a “side effect” of this therapy.

9. When should I start voice therapy?  Starting early leads to better results. You maybe be the last person to notice your voice has changed. If people are asking you to repeat yourself, or ignoring you, then you should consider starting therapy. 

10. How do I get started? Ask your doctor or neurologist for a referral for LSVT Loud! with Purple Heron Therapy. Not all Speech Therapists are LSVT certified. At Purple Heron Therapy, we have certified speech therapists delivering Loud! in Deland, in person or online. Medicare Approved.