As today marks Speech-Language Therapy Day, the Association of Speech and Language Pathologists (ASLP) Malta, in collaboration with the Speech-Language Department, held talks for the general public, providing information about individuals with acquired neurogenic communication disorders.
Dr Norbert Vella, Clinical Chairperson of the Neurology Department explained how speech problems may be the result of epilepsy, strokes, Parkinson disease and respiratory problems. He explained how on a daily basis, medical professions witness the frustration in the eyes of patients who find it difficult to communicate.
One in three persons who suffer from stroke manages to live however face difficulties in speaking and feeding. In Malta, 45% of elderly suffer from high blood pressure which can lead to epilepsy.
Dr Norbert Vella
Dr Josanne Aquilina, a consultant neurologist said that over the past 20 years, there has been several advances in therapeutic measures. She noted that Parkinson’s disease, although common in elder people, may target young people too, affecting fatigue, handwriting and cognitive skills. 10% of Parkinson’s disease patients need to undergo deep brain stimulation.
Dementia can also affect speech, alongside causing memory loss and visual hallucinations. So far there has been no breakthrough drugs for this disorder, however medicine can slow down the process for a few months.
Multiple Sclorosis is the most common of neurological disease affecting young people. It has not yet been confirmed what causes it although scientist believes it is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic dispositions.
ASLP president Norma Camilleri
During the talk, Joe Zammit, who suffered from a stroke admitted that not being able to communicate effectively ‘felt like being in purgatory’. He explained that he is well aware of what is going on around him, but finds it difficult to connect the words and communicate.
Through speech therapy, Mr Zammit today has made tremendous improvement. He advised those going through a similar experience to collaborate with therapists and carry out the required exercises designed to help one improve his or her communication skills.
Speech-Language Pathologist Alex Gobey, explained how on their first encounter with a patient, speech therapists first evaluate his or her case history and carry out a screening and assessment. After establishing differential diagnoses and short and long term goals, intervention is carried out.
Aphasia is a disorder caused by damage to the parts of the brain that control language. It can make it hard for you to read, write, and say what you mean to say.
Dr Rita Micallef, Manager of the Speech-Language Department within the Health Ministry concluded the event outlining the services the department has been rendering for the past 35 years.