Learning ASL to compensate for speech issues

[pdpatient]

My speech has gotten so bad that my wife is proposing that we both learn American Sign Language.

Has anyone ever tried something like this?

[Gallowglass]

sounds like a great idea!

[Boscoejean]

ASL might be useful if it is understood by the person using it and the person who needs to know what is being said.

"There are also augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices can include: voice amplifiers, speech-generating devices on tablets or smartphones, picture boards, alphabet boards, dedicated speech aids like SpeechVive, and even simple writing tools depending on the severity of their speech impairment and cognitive abilities, allowing them to communicate effectively when spoken words are difficult to produce. "

These are available at a wide range of prices depending on the sophistication of the device but my thinking on this is that it would depend on whether the person would be able to type or tap the right area to get the words or phrases that would be appropriate to the situation.

"Key points about AAC devices for Parkinson's patients:

Low-tech options:

Picture boards: Visual representations of common words or phrases to point to for communication.

Alphabet boards: To spell out words letter by letter.

Writing pads: To write down messages

High-tech options:

Speech-generating devices (SGDs): Apps on tablets or dedicated devices with pre-programmed words and phrases, allowing users to select and have the device speak for them.

Text-to-speech functionality on smartphones: Typing words or phrases to be spoken by the phone

SpeechVive: A wearable device that uses background noise to trigger the Lombard effect, naturally increasing speaking volume.

Factors to consider when choosing an AAC device:

Severity of speech impairment:

Mild speech difficulties may only require a voice amplifier, while severe impairments might necessitate a full-featured SGD.

Cognitive abilities:

Some devices require more complex navigation, which might be challenging for individuals with cognitive decline.

Motor skills:

The device's interface should be accessible based on the user's ability to manipulate buttons or touch screens.

Important considerations:

Speech therapy is crucial:

Even with AAC devices, speech therapy can help individuals maximize their remaining speech abilities and improve their overall communication skills.

Training and support:

Proper training on how to use the AAC device is essential for both the user and their communication partners. "

apdaparkinson.org/article/a....

asha.org/practice-portal/pr....

chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/apdaparkinson.org/wp-conten...

For basic communication a communication board might work and be somewhat specific

lingraphica.com/free-commun...

[eviedotty]

I am a sign language user. I learned it as a hobby and because my best friend is deaf. When I had a full stroke from a bleed on the brain I lost speech completely but for some reason I didn’t lose sign language, the neurosurgeon was fascinated by this as he had not seen it before and along with a colleague attempted to find the pathway on the brain that accommodated sign language. The speech therapist wasn’t so kind she was insistent that I stopped signing because it was her view that I would never speak again. The fascinating thing for me was knowing sign helped me regain speech because sign became my first language for the period of time I needed it. Essentially what would happen is I would sign easily and then translate the sign into speech,it was a crazy time but helpful to me to know sign

[DogsWoode]

Obvious or not, one needs to have dexterity in their hands. I'd be concerned about that,

[kaypeeoh in reply to DogsWoode]

I go to Hartford Health for Tai chi and Parkinson's boxing and yoga. I think they're all designed to aid the brain-body connection. Tai Chi uses Eastern Philosophy. Boxing builds hand strength. Yoga builds balance. Tai Chi does a lot of hand exercises: Point with your left index finger while throwing the 'okay!' sign with the right thumb. Then switch. The idea is to strengthen the connections between the left and right sides of the brain. At first I saw people frustrated and upset when they couldn't do it but with time they all got better at it.

[DogsWoode in reply to kaypeeoh]

Well done! You've got that sorted then. 3 excellent practices. Let us know what you decide to do moving forward....and best of luck. Have you tried speech therapy? I'm assuming yes but no harm in checking,

[MaidensTower]

First time posting on this list. I don't have input about ASL, but here is info about a promising device that helps PWP who have difficulty speaking: BeechBand. It isn't intended to be used for long conversations, but as I watch the videos, I'm impressed with how much improvement it provides.

The first two links are interviews with the inventor (an introductory interview and a follow-up interview with the same interviewers). The third link goes to the BeechBand website.

youtube.com/watch?v=kR89UH8...(Not working as expected?)

youtube.com/watch?v=HOubt08...(Not working as expected?)

beechband.com/collections/f...

The device is not yet available in North America (and is currently sold out in the UK), but if I'm understanding correctly, an app is available for download to a select group of smart phones.

[DogsWoode in reply to MaidensTower]

Yes!! I don't know why I didn't think about this. Me too, Maidenstower, impressed all round with the creator and the device.

[Jandeb]

have you tried Parkinson’s voice project is a free online service.