Speech Amplification Devices for Parkinson and Related Diseases: Talker- and Technology-Driven Enhancements
Michigan State University
Summary
The proposed research aims to investigate the use of speech amplification devices as a potential treatment option for people with Parkinson's disease and related disorders who exhibit hypophonia, a voice disorder that affects over half of those with Parkinson's disease. By characterizing the acoustic and perceptual effects of speech amplification and identifying ways to optimize outcomes through talker- and device-specific enhancements, this project seeks to develop personalized, evidence-based treatment options for hypophonia. The current proposal will move this effort forward by systematically eliciting and modifying speech amplification device output that leverage both behavioral and technological approaches.
Description
Though intensive behavioral speech intervention is considered the "gold standard" for treating hypophonia in Parkinson's disease (PD), many individuals struggle to transfer or maintain these behavioral strategies into their daily communication. This is because PD, affecting over six million people worldwide, is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder that also impairs cognition, sensorimotor integration, and fatigue. Speech amplification devices are a type of augmentative technology that have been shown to improve communication related outcomes in PD. Amplification devices increase the volum…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 50+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Dominant speakers of North American English * Have received a neurologist's diagnosis of Parkinson disease or parkinsonism (e.g., PSP/MSA/PSP) * Present with changes in their speech/voice Exclusion Criteria: * History of any other speech, language, or neurological concern other than Parkinson/parkinsonism. * Uncorrected hearing loss that exceeds a threshold of 40 dB HL in more than one ear (as per baseline screening audiometry) and/or use of a cochlear implant.
Interventions
- BehavioralBehavioral speech strategies + speech amplification
Behavioral speech strategies + speech amplification
Location
- Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing, Michigan