Speech Therapy Treatment for Dementia
Dementia affects a variety of cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and visual perception. This accumulation of symptoms often leads to impaired judgment, disorientation, and even depression. At CLASS, Inc., our speech therapists have undergone extensive additional training in the treatment of communication and memory challenges resulting from dementia.
Speech therapy at CLASS, Inc. stimulates cognitive abilities through specially designed therapeutic activities targeting your individual areas of need. Our speech therapy program allows people to maintain levels of independence for longer;
When you participate in speech therapy at CLASS, Inc., you will also learn functional tools to make your life easier and more enjoyable. For example, our expert speech therapists will teach you how to modify your environment so that independence is maintained while frustration or confusion is reduced. For example, based on individual needs we can make your life easier by:
- Determining the appropriate type of labels or pictures on cupboards to show content (e.g., coffee cup);
- Figuring out what type of familiar signs or images can be placed on doors to identify room function (e.g., toilet sign, picture of a bed);
- Creating a "memory box" or "memory book" that contains small personal items identified by your speech therapist that trigger meaningful conversations;
- Developing a unique daily schedule system that works for you that provide control over your activities and environment;
- prominently displaying clocks and calendars;
- Setting up computer function keys, with meaningful stick-on labels, to facilitate easy internet and e-mail connections; etc.
At CLASS, Inc. our speech-language pathologists can assess how a person eats, drinks, and swallows. We believe that mealtimes should be enjoyable, so If there are any difficulties with your chewing or swallowing, our clinicians will teach you strategies for safe eating.
Special Information for Family and Caregivers:
If you care for someone with dementia, you will learn a lot from our speech therapists. We provide individualized training on how to manage your loved one's symptoms.
Learning how to communicate with your loved one can make a world of difference. After all, dementia patients' behavior is hardly random. It's often triggered by specific conditions related to their direct environment.
Improved communication among individuals and their families/caretakers results in a better quality of life for both parties. It minimizes stress and anxiety while supporting relationships through improved communication skills.
Finally, the expertise of our speech therapy team at CLASS, Inc. can gauge a person's capacity to consent to treatment and care. Families and caretakers can rely on us to communicate relevant information to your loved one to ensure they're able to, as accurately as possible, process the medical information.
Final Thoughts on Speech Therapy
Dementia is a heartbreaking condition that claims millions of new victims each year. Patients eventually lose the ability to communicate and use other cognitive functions. That's why it's imperative they find the right treatment.
CLASS, Inc. offers videoconferencing technology to deliver individualized therapy sessions. Those seeking treatment for dementia no longer have the need to go into an office. They can tap into the power of speech therapy right from their homes.
To reach our team of dementia experts, call us at: 253.874.9300 x101 or email us at: info@classinc.net. Even better, drop in and meet us; no appointment necessary. We are located on the scenic Foss Waterway at 535 Dock St. #104, Tacoma. 98402. We'd love to meet you!
|