Dementia Treatment and Speech Pathology

Dementia, a memory condition commonly associated with Alzheimer's disease, affects a person's ability to communicate. Symptoms of dementia include nonsensical speech, concentration problems and difficulty with words. Speech pathology (SLP) plays an essential role in treating dementia.

History

• Up until the 1970s, dementia was considered untreatable. Understanding how the memory works changed this concept.

Speech Pathology

• Speech pathology, the study and treatment of communication disorders, helps to diagnose and develop a treatment plan for dementia.

Treatment Requirements

• Speech pathologists look for patients who have the abilities to read and follow basic directions. Dementia patients with these abilities can benefit from SLP the most.

Treatment Plan

• Speech pathologists work with a patient and his family/caregiver on developing an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment plans may include strategies like hanging up large print signs in the patient's home to help the patient differentiate room from room.

Considerations

• Speech pathology will be significant in the future because people are living longer. The longer a person lives, the more vulnerable the person will be to developing dementia.