SpeechVive is a small, wearable device designed to improve speech and voice production in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.  The programmable device is worn behind the ear similar to a hearing aid. When the user speaks, background noise plays in their ear, acting upon a reflex, which causes them to speak louder.  Because the device does not require training, it can be successfully used by persons with mild cognitive impairment. memory.  Patients, who have completed other forms of speech and voice treatment, including the LSVT® or Speak OUT! are still candidates for the device. In fact, the Speech Vive can provide the perfect transition from the skills that have been learned in speech therapy to everyday conversation which entails the complex task of listening, processing information and formulating thoughts.

SpeechVive is an evidence-based option designed to improve vocal loudness and/or speech clarity in patients with hypophonia, a common motor speech symptom in patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and related diagnosis.  Research conducted by the SpeechVive inventor, Jessica Huber, SLP, PhD, demonstrated that over 80% of patients showed immediate improvement in speech from simply wearing the device for the first time. More recent research comparing Speech Vive device use to the LSVT® Loud program found similar outcomes, with Speech Vive users reporting less cognitive demand as there is nothing to remember or self-cueing required.

The SpeechVive device works by detecting when a patient speaks, and at that time, the device plays a background noise in one of the patient’s ears, which in turn elicits Lombard effect which is a well known phenomenon where speakers naturally speak louder under conditions of background noise. The device is only activated when the patient is speaking, and when programmed is designed to provide a 3-4dBSPL increase in vocal intensity. This comes about because the person is using their speech mechanism differently and with continued use a training effect takes place.

Who is a Candidate?

Not all individuals with Parkinson’s speech related problems will benefit from Speech Vive device use and consulting with a speech-language pathologist is always helpful assess patient criteria and an individual’s candidacy. Some general criteria, however include:

• Stimulablity for an increase in vocal intensity in response to an external cue. For example when asked to speak louder, is the individual able to generate an increase in vocal intensity.
• Interest or intent to communicate. 
• Adequate cognitive and motor skills to effectively use selected device.

The Speech Vive is NOT a passive device. Patients obtain the training benefit EVERY time they speak, so, ideally, they should wear the device approximately 4 hours/day and use their voice 20-30 minutes during that time frame along with whatever functional/conversational speech they engage in. This is best achieved by reading aloud or performing other speech tasks they may have received in speech therapy. Working with a speech-language pathologist can be a good way for patients to obtain the most benefit from device use. 

Want to Learn More?

Join me for a webinar sponsored by Neuro Challenge Organization January 22,2025 at 12pm ET.

https://www.neurochallenge.org/program-calendar/

To learn more visit:  https://www.speechvive.com/

My Mission: To enlist individuals in their treatment, and help them express their personality & spirit through voice. To educate  and empower. Mary Spremulli, MA, CCC-SLP Certified End of Life Specialist Training (CEOLS) * FiTOUR® Group Exercise Instructor 

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