If you or someone you love has Parkinson’s disease, you’ve probably noticed that it can affect more than just movement. One of the lesser-known symptoms is a speech difficulty called hypokinetic dysarthria. This might show up as a softer voice, slurred speech, or trouble finding the right rhythm when talking.

The good news? There are exercises and therapies that can help. Just like stretching or lifting weights can strengthen your body, speech exercises can ‘work out’ the muscles involved in talking. Even better, many of these exercises are simple, low-pressure, and easy to do at home.

Let’s take a look at the most effective ways to give your voice a boost.

Why does Parkinson’s affect speech?

Parkinson’s affects the brain’s ability to send clear signals to muscles – including those used for speaking like the tongue, lips, and vocal cords. That’s why people with Parkinson’s might sound quieter or have trouble enunciating words clearly.

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), up to 90% of people with Parkinson’s experience speech and voice changes over time.

Here are some exercises that can help improve speech.

LSVT Loud

If you’ve heard of any speech therapy for Parkinson’s, it’s probably LSVT LOUD. This research-based program is all about thinking loud to make your speech clearer and stronger.

• Focus: Vocal loudness and clarity
• Duration: 4 sessions per week for 4 weeks
• Backed by over 20 years of research (LSVT Global)

Studies show LSVT LOUD improves vocal strength, articulation, and even facial expressions.

Try saying “Ahhhh” in a strong, loud voice for as long as you can, once or twice a day.

Breathing and diaphragm workouts

Good speech starts with good breath support. Parkinson’s can weaken the diaphragm, leading to shorter, softer sentences.

• Try diaphragmatic breathing: Breathe in deeply through your nose, feeling your stomach expand, then exhale slowly while saying “ssssss.”

This simple habit improves control and helps project your voice more effectively.

Articulation Exercises

Ever feel like your words are running together? Articulation exercises help strengthen lips, tongue, and jaw muscles.

• Practice exaggerated speech: Say “la-la-la” or “pa-ta-ka” slowly and clearly.
• Use a mirror to watch your mouth move. It’s surprisingly helpful!

These techniques help retrain muscle coordination for clearer speech.

Pacing and rhythm practice

Parkinson’s can mess with your internal ‘speech clock’. That’s why some people speak too fast, too slow, or pause in odd places.

• Try using a metronome application on your phone or tap your finger while reading aloud to improve rhythm.
• Practice pausing between short phrases instead of speaking or reading out loud in long, breathless sentences.

This kind of practice helps your brain re-learn smooth, natural patterns of speech.

Singing

Singing isn’t just fun – it’s therapy! Research shows that singing can strengthen vocal cords, improve pitch control, and boost confidence.

• Join a Parkinson’s singing group or choir if there’s one near you.
• Sing your favourite song in the shower or car. Bonus points for big gestures and smiles at the same time.

Here are some more tips:

• Don’t wait until speech problems become severe. Early intervention makes a big difference.
• Find a speech-language pathologist trained in Parkinson’s therapy who can tailor vocal exercises for you.
• Make your practice regular. Like any kind of exercise, regular practice is key. A few minutes a day adds up!

Living with Parkinson’s isn’t easy, but when it comes to speech, you have tools and techniques that really do make a difference. Whether it’s structured therapy like LSVT LOUD, breathing practice, or even just singing along to your favourite tunes, every bit helps.

So go ahead – speak up. Your voice matters, and with the right support, it can stay strong.

Sources:

• (2023). Parkinson’s Disease and Speech Disorders. Retrieved from asha.org
• Ramig, L. O., et al. (2018). “Changes in vocal loudness following intensive voice treatment (LSVT) in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.” Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research.
• Di Benedetto, P., et al. (2009). “Voice and choral singing treatment: A new approach for speech and voice disorders in Parkinson’s disease.” European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.
• LSVT Global. (n.d.). Research and Effectiveness. Retrieved from lsvtglobal.com