HiCommunication as a novel speech and communication treatment for Parkinson's disease: A feasibility study

Speech and communication problems are common in Parkinson's disease (PD) and can result in social withdrawal and reduced quality of life. Intervention may improve symptoms but transfer and maintenance remain challenging for many. Access to treatment may also be limited. Group intervention incorporating principles for experience-dependent plasticity may address these challenges. The aim of this study was to develop and study feasibility aspects of a new intervention program for group training of speech and communication in people with PD.

Development and content of the program called HiCommunication is described. Core target areas are voice, articulation, word-finding and memory. Five participants with mild-moderate PD completed this feasibility trial. Attendance rate and possible adverse events as well as the participants' experiences were documented. A speech recording and dysarthria testing were completed to study feasibility of the assessment procedure and evaluate possible changes in voice sound level and intelligibility.

Attendance rate was 89%. No adverse events occurred. Participants reported a positive experience and limited fatigue. Assessment was completed in approximately 30 min and was well tolerated. Four of five participants had an increased voice sound level during text-reading postintervention and mean intelligibility improved.

Results indicate that HiCommunication is feasible for people with mild-moderate PD. The program was appreciated and well tolerated. Positive outcomes regarding voice sound level and intelligibility were observed; however, the number of participants was very limited. The results motivate that effects of HiCommunication are further studied in a randomized controlled trial, which is ongoing.