How does moderate phase Parkinsons affect the voice?

How does moderate phase Parkinsons affect the voice?

Neal Hermanowicz (Director of the Movement Disorders Program) gives expert video advice on: How does moderate phase Parkinsons affect dexterity?; How does moderate phase Parkinsons affect body motion?; What are the sexual effects of moderate Parkinson's? and more...

Well, this is a problem for many people with Parkinson's and their family members because as later, the voice changes can be more softness or reduction in volume, a lessening of the inflection of the voice. It can have an impact on communication. It can be sort of a source of tension between the patient and their spouse. For example, you're speaking too softly or your hearing is affected and it may be a combination of the two. But that's a pretty common discussion that I've heard from my patients and their spouse with somebody who is affected by Parkinson's disease. It can be improved upon by training and by practice. By using techniques of speech therapy that can be improved upon.