Adults

Understanding and expressing spoken and written words. Communication is a basic human right that is essential for participation in society. Many older Australians live with a communication disorder that impacts their ability to maintain relationships, express their wants and needs and participate in social conversation and community life. Communication problems experienced by older adults may be caused by neurological disorders such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Language disorders (Aphasia) may include being unable to follow a conversation or understand what is being said to them, being unable to comprehend written text such as a menu or brochure, being unable to express ideas due to word-finding difficulties or inability to use correct grammar.

Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) can be assessed and treated through compensation (such as diet modifications) or rehabilitation (muscle strengthening exercises) by a Speech Pathologist. While minor changes in how people swallow are a normal part of the ageing process, conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease and dementia can also cause swallowing difficulties.

Older people are at a higher risk of voice disorders (dysphonia), with more than half of older adults with voice problems finding it negatively impacts their quality of life (Speech Pathology Australia). Voice disorders may also affect people with stroke or a brain injury.

Speech refers to the way the words are said. Adults may experience speech difficulties following a stroke or due to Parkinson's, Dementia, Huntington's or other neurological disorders. Speech disorders may make spoken words sound slurred, slow or strained and make it hard for others to understand.