Neurodegenerative Disease and Speech Rehabilitation

ABSTRACT

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis may induce impairment of speech motor system. This review discusses the characteristics of dysarthria and symptom management for these conditions. Given the progressive nature of the neurodegenerative diseases, speech–language pathologists must be aware of appropriate augmentative and alternative communication equipment at the early stage of the disease course. Patients with neurodegenerative diseases can maintain functional communication with augmentative and alternative communication supports.