Cerebral palsy can affect the muscles and movements involved in speaking, eating and swallowing. Speech and language therapy can help children and adults who experience these difficulties.
Speech and language therapists can also support people who communicate in ways other than speech.
Communication and Cerebral Palsy
Some people with cerebral palsy speak clearly without difficulty. Others may find controlling the muscles required for speech challenging.
A speech and language therapist can assess communication and recommend strategies appropriate to the individual.
This may include work on speech or alternative and augmentative communication.
Communication Aids
When speech does not meet all of a person's communication needs, other methods can help.
These may include:
- symbols or communication boards
- signing
- communication books
- tablets or specialist software
- electronic communication devices
- eye-gaze technology.
Using communication technology does not prevent someone from developing or using speech where that is possible.
The aim is effective communication.
Eating, Drinking and Swallowing
Speech and language therapists also work with people who have eating, drinking or swallowing difficulties.
An assessment can identify potential problems and help determine safer and more manageable approaches.
Swallowing difficulties can have health implications, so concerns such as frequent coughing or choking during meals should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional.
Supporting Communication at Home
Family members can help by giving someone enough time to communicate and avoiding finishing their sentences unnecessarily.
It is also important to communicate directly with the person rather than assuming physical or speech difficulties reflect their understanding.
Individual Support
Speech and language therapy should be based on the person's communication goals.
For some, clearer speech may be the priority. For others, the most effective approach may involve combining speech with technology, symbols or another communication method.
Sources and further information
Useful websites
- NHS: Cerebral palsy
Overview of cerebral palsy, symptoms, causes, treatment and support.