Evaluating Lee Silverman Voice Therapy-LOUD for Speech and Quality of Life in Turkish-Speaking Adults with Parkinsons Disease Aged 40 to 80

What this Trial Is About

Parkinsons disease can cause speech and voice problems like reduced loudness and clarity, which affect patients and families quality of life. This research evaluates the Lee Silverman Voice Therapy-LOUD LSVT-LOUD, a specialized speech therapy, in Turkish-speaking adults with Parkinsons disease aged 40 to 80. The study aims to assess objective vocal improvements and participants subjective experiences to support adapting this therapy for Turkish speakers. The study provides intensive LSVT-LOUD therapy involving four 60-minute individual sessions per week over four weeks. This therapy includes daily vocal exercises such as sustained vowel phonation, pitch range drills, and functional speech tasks progressing from words to conversation. Participants also receive carryover exercises for daily practice to help maintain improvements. A control group receives standard medical care without intensive speech therapy during the study. Participants attend therapy sessions and complete follow-up assessments immediately after therapy, at one month, and at three months. Researchers measure vocal loudness, acoustic voice stability, and fundamental frequency, along with patient-reported outcomes like voice handicap and Parkinsons disease quality of life. The study monitors therapy experiences and speech changes to evaluate the therapys impact over time.

Efficacy of LSVT-LOUD Therapy on Voice, Speech, and Quality of Life in Parkinson's Disease