For many people living with Parkinson’s, physical changes like tremors, stiffness, or balance issues are the most recognised symptoms. But for others—and often their families—it’s the more subtle, gradual shifts that can be even more challenging.
One of the lesser-talked-about issues is how Parkinson’s can affect speech and swallowing. Perhaps you’ve noticed a loved one speaking more quietly than usual. Maybe they’re clearing their throat often at mealtimes, or taking longer to finish meals. These changes might seem small at first, but they can have a real impact on independence, social interaction, and overall wellbeing.
At Simpson Physiotherapy, we believe in supporting every aspect of life with Parkinson’s. This blog is here to help you understand the early signs, what’s typical, what isn’t, and most importantly—what you can do to stay confident and safe.
How Parkinson’s Affects Speech and Swallowing
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological condition that affects movement and coordination. It doesn’t just influence your limbs—it can impact the tiny, precise muscles in your face, mouth, throat, and vocal cords. This means that speech and swallowing can be compromised over time.
Some common symptoms include:
- A quieter or more monotone voice
- Slurred or mumbled speech
- Difficulty projecting your voice in noisy environments
- A sensation of food or drink ‘sticking’ in the throat
- Coughing or throat-clearing during meals
- Longer mealtimes due to fatigue or coordination
These changes are known medically as dysarthria (speech issues) and dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), and they’re surprisingly common. Research suggests that up to 90% of people living with Parkinson’s will experience some form of speech change, and up to 80% may encounter swallowing issues at some point.
Parkinson’s Speech Changes: What to Look For
Is your voice not carrying like it used to?
It’s often family members who notice first. You may feel like you’re speaking at a normal volume, but those around you might be asking you to repeat yourself more often. This is because Parkinson’s affects the motor control of your vocal cords, leading to a softer, breathier voice that lacks variation in tone.
Other common signs include:
- Hoarseness
- Speaking more slowly or hesitating on words
- Running out of breath mid-sentence
For those affected, this can be incredibly frustrating and isolating. Many people begin to avoid social situations, phone calls, or group gatherings altogether—fearing that they won’t be heard or understood.
Swallowing Difficulties: More Than Just an Inconvenience
Changes in swallowing may begin subtly—perhaps with a slight cough after drinking water, or a need to chew food longer than usual. However, over time, dysphagia can become a serious concern.
Potential risks include:
- Aspiration: When food or liquid enters the airway instead of the oesophagus, increasing the risk of chest infections or pneumonia
- Malnutrition or dehydration: Difficulty swallowing can lead to reduced food and fluid intake
- Fatigue and frustration: Longer mealtimes can be exhausting and discouraging
At Simpson Physiotherapy, we see how this impacts confidence and independence. A person who once enjoyed cooking and eating meals with loved ones might now feel anxious about every bite.
Parkinson’s Voice Therapy: How LSVT LOUD Can Help
Thankfully, there is support—and it works. One of the most effective evidence-based therapies for Parkinson’s speech changes is LSVT LOUD.
This therapy programme is specifically designed for people living with Parkinson’s and focuses on amplifying vocal loudness and retraining the brain to recognise what a normal voice should feel and sound like.
At Simpson Physiotherapy, we are proud to be one of the few clinics offering Specialist LSVT LOUD Sessions for Parkinson’s right here in Glasgow. Our certified therapists work one-to-one with you, guiding you through exercises that:
- Strengthen the vocal cords and breath control
- Improve articulation and speech clarity
- Boost vocal confidence
- Carry over into everyday communication—whether it’s in a busy café or a quiet room
It’s not just about speaking louder—it’s about being heard again.
What You Can Do at Home
There are many simple ways to support speech and swallowing in everyday life:
For Speech:
- Warm up your voice each morning—try humming or reading aloud
- Face your listener when speaking to help with visual cues
- Take a deep breath before speaking to project your voice
- Speak slowly and clearly, especially in group conversations
For Swallowing:
- Sit upright during and after meals
- Take small sips and bites—don’t rush
- Avoid talking while chewing or drinking
- Use a straw cautiously (some people find it helpful, others find it more difficult)
If you have any doubts, it’s always best to speak with a qualified physiotherapist or speech and language therapist who understands Parkinson’s.
Real Results: Rebuilding Confidence Through Voice
Many of the individuals we support come to us after noticing subtle but frustrating changes—like fading into the background of conversations or feeling anxious during meals. Through personalised voice therapy such as LSVT LOUD, combined with neuro-active physiotherapy and ongoing support, we’ve seen people rediscover their voice—literally and emotionally.
Whether it’s rejoining a community group, chatting confidently with family, or simply feeling more in control day-to-day, those small but meaningful wins make all the difference. And at Simpson Physiotherapy, those wins are exactly what we’re here to help create.
Every journey is different. But every step forward, no matter how small, makes a difference.
How Simpson Physiotherapy Can Help
At Simpson Physiotherapy, we take a holistic approach to Parkinson’s care. We don’t just focus on walking and balance—we look at the whole picture, including speech and swallowing.
Here’s how we can support you:
- Free Telephone Consultation – Speak directly with an expert and get personalised advice on your concerns.
- In-Home Visits – Our team can assess speech and swallowing concerns in the comfort of your own home.
- LSVT LOUD Therapy – Evidence-based voice therapy to boost vocal clarity and strength.
- Online and In-Person PD Warrior Classes – Neuro-active group exercise sessions designed to improve strength, coordination, and confidence.
- Tailored Physiotherapy Plans – Addressing everything from posture to facial control and breath support.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you care about has noticed changes in speech or swallowing, don’t wait for it to get worse. These issues are common—but they are not inevitable.
📞 Book your FREE telephone consultation today:
👉 simpsonphysio.co.uk/phone-consult
Or call us directly on 0141 530 2092
Let’s work together to ensure your voice is heard—and that every mealtime remains safe, enjoyable, and empowering.
