Effective communication is a cornerstone for good quality of life. For adults with communication challenges, we can use tools and strategies to optimise communication and enhance quality of life. These tools and strategies can be grouped under the heading Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC). In this article we will explore one type of AAC, namely [...]
Communication is fundamental to our everyday lives. Whether it’s expressing our thoughts, needs, or emotions, the ability to communicate effectively plays a crucial role in our personal and professional interactions. However, for some individuals, communication is not as straightforward due to what is known as Complex Communication Needs (CCN). In Speech Pathology Week 2024, [...]
Like breathing, swallowing is essential to everyday life. Humans swallow at between 500-700 times a day, around three times an hour during sleep, once per minute while awake and even more during meals. Around one million Australians have a swallowing difficulty ('dysphagia'). Swallowing problems can occur at any stage of life. However, the knowledge [...]
The speech pathology Allied Health Assistant, or AHA, can aid the delivery and administration of speech pathology services. The AHA is not a replacement for a qualified speech pathologist. Rather, the AHA can make a speech pathology program more efficient and effective. This creates benefits for both clients and speech pathologists. You pay a reduced [...]
As many as 50-90% of individuals with Parkinson’s disease will develop speech and voice disorders (see ‘dysarthria’ and ‘dysphonia’ below). It is common for a person with Parkinson’s to speak too softly and quickly, to the point where other people can’t understand. For this reason, speech pathology and Parkinson’s disease go hand in hand. [...]
With the National Disability Insurance Scheme now in full-swing down in the Illawarra, I’m taking a moment to stop and ask myself, “how are we going as NDIS Providers”? I’ve pulled together my top 5 tips for working with the NDIS, which help me to provide quality Disability services My Top Five for working with [...]
About the NDIS Illawarra Family Fun Day On Saturday 26th August I was out at Kembla Grange Raceway, welcoming the NDIS to the Illawarra. This was the official "launch party" for the NDIS in the Illawarra and the turnout was impressive. I really enjoyed seeing the positive interactions between participants, their families, and service providers. [...]
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is changing the face of Disability services in Australia. There is a lot of interest, discussion and media attention on what it means for clients (which is obviously good). But there is not as much discussion about the workers providing the support services. Forecasters tell us that demand for speech pathologists [...]
