Dysarthria in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Systematic Review of Characteristics, Speech Treatment, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication Options
Journal of Medical Speech-Language Pathology
Hanson, E. K., Yorkston, K. M., et al. (2011).
Journal of Medical Speech-Language Pathology, 19(3), 12-30.
This systematic review investigates the effects of speech treatment and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention on the communication in individuals wtih dysarthria associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This review is part of a series of evidence-based systematic reviews by the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences.
Academic Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
Through December 2009
Not further specified
Approximately 22
<div>"No evidence is available to support the use of strengthening exercises" for individuals with dysarthria secondary to ALS (p. 21).</div>
<div>Behavioral strategies including speech supplementation, communication partner support, and other compensatory speech/communication strategies, are "useful for individuals with mild to moderate dysarthria" (p. 21).</div>
<div>Early assessment and ongoing monitoring of speaking rate is needed for individuals with dysarthria secondary to ALS . This assists the speech-language pathologists in establishing a baseline speaking rate, identifying and responding to changes in communication, and determinging the timing of AAC intervention.</div>
<div>"Alternative forms of access to SGDs can help people with ALS continue to communicate even when motor control is extremely limited" (p. 24).</div>
