LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

Volume 22:5 May 2022
ISSN 1930-2940

Editors:
         Sam Mohanlal, Ph.D.
         B. Mallikarjun, Ph.D.
         A. R. Fatihi, Ph.D.
         G. Baskaran, Ph.D.
         T. Deivasigamani, Ph.D.
         Pammi Pavan Kumar, Ph.D.
         Soibam Rebika Devi, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Managing Editor & Publisher: M. S. Thirumalai, Ph.D.

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Introducing Telepractice for Parkinson’s Disease-
Deciphering the Ease and Hurdle – A Single Case Report

Elanthendral C, MASLP., Sivamani J¸ MSc. SLP, and Vishnavi S, BASLP., Intern

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder predominantly affecting dopamine-producing, “dopaminergic” neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. It is a slow and progressive idiopathic disease that affects about 1 to 2% of the population over the 5th decade of life (Jang H et al., 2009). About 90% of people with Parkinson’s disease have communicative disorders (Logemann, J. A et al., 1978). Owing to the existing pandemic worldwide, telepractice has become more common in treating the patients. The present study highlights the outcomes of telerehabilitation of a 79-year-old individual who is a known case of Parkinsonism, diagnosed to have hypokinetic dysarthria. The study also shows us a clear view on the importance of tele practice for speech therapy amidst the current pandemic situation, its effect on quality of life and challenges that are faced with telepractice as mode of rehabilitation for speech-language therapy service delivery option.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, Speech-Language therapy, Telepractice.

1. Introduction

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder predominantly affecting dopamine-producing, “dopaminergic” neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. It is a slow and progressive idiopathic disease that affects about 1 to 2% of the population over the 5th decade of life (Jang H et al., 2009)1. Parkinson symptoms usually begin gradually and get worse over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking, talking, behavioural changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue. Although Parkinson's disease can't be cured, medications and therapy might significantly improve your symptoms. Speech difficulties (dysarthria) and voice problems are very common in people with PD. About 90% of people with PD have communicative disorders. (Logemann, J. A et al., 1978)2. Assessment and intervention options depend on many factors like age, literacy, socio-economic status etc. Research has shown that minorities and individuals with lower annual income live with more severe Parkinson’s disease than individuals with higher annual income. Literature evidence gauging the effects of Socio-economic status (SES) on Parkinson disease is imperfectly aligned with miscellaneous results (Morgan, R., 2018)3. So, it is essential to carry research studies in developing countries like India which has society with varied socio-economic statuses.

The role of a speech language pathologist is paramount in the assessment, management and rehabilitation of individuals analysing the dependency on these factors for overall communication abetting better quality of life. Owing to the existing pandemic worldwide, telepractice has become more common in treating patients. Telepractice for Parkinsonism is an imperative arena. Due to issue in kinesis and curfews of lockdown, the feasibility of transporting the patient from home to therapy, is questionable for which telepractice may be an appropriate option for these patients. Advances in techniques to teletherapy with available resources targeting to meet realistic expectations of the client and challenges that are met alongside are to be documented to benefit the community of Parkinsonism.

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Elanthendral C, MASLP
Assistant Professor
Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
elanthendralslp@gmail.com

Sivamani J¸ MSc. SLP
Post-graduate Student
Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
jsivamani2000@gmail.com

Vishnavi S, BASLP., Intern
Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
svs3501@gmail.com

SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre
Kattankulathur 603203
Tamil Nadu, India
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