Speech Therapy for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Memory loss can be deeply unsettling—not just for the person experiencing it, but for the family members supporting them. As dementia progresses, it often impacts communication, problem-solving, attention, and even the ability to perform daily routines.
While there is no cure for dementia, speech-language therapy can make a meaningful difference. My goal is to help individuals preserve their abilities for as long as possible and support families in navigating the challenges of cognitive decline with dignity, structure, and compassion.
What Are Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?
Dementia is a general term that describes a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. It’s not a specific disease, but a group of symptoms that affect memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60–80% of all cases. It is a progressive neurological condition in which brain cells gradually break down and die, leading to worsening memory loss and cognitive impairment over time.
Key Features of Dementia
People with dementia may experience:
Memory loss, especially recent or short-term memory
Difficulty with language—finding words, following conversations, or expressing thoughts
Problems with attention, decision-making, or judgment
Confusion about time, place, or familiar faces
Difficulty completing daily tasks, such as cooking, paying bills, or getting dressed
Changes in mood, behavior, or personality
Dementia progresses differently for each individual, but symptoms generally worsen over time.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s typically begins with mild memory loss and gradually affects more areas of the brain responsible for language, reasoning, and behavior. In the later stages, individuals may lose the ability to hold conversations, recognize loved ones, or manage basic self-care.
The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not fully understood, but it is associated with the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain—beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles—that interfere with communication between nerve cells.
Risk factors include age (most common in people over 65), genetics, cardiovascular health, and head injury history.
Other Types of Dementia
In addition to Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia include:
Vascular dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often after strokes or small vessel damage
Lewy body dementia: Includes visual hallucinations and movement difficulties
Frontotemporal dementia: Affects personality, behavior, and language more than memory early on
Mixed dementia: A combination of two or more types, often Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia
Is There a Cure?
There is currently no cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s, but early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatments may include:
Medications to temporarily support memory or mood
Speech-language therapy to support communication and daily function
Occupational therapy for safety and task completion
Support for caregivers and structured routines to reduce confusion
Understanding Dementia and Communication
Dementia is not a single disease, but a term that describes a range of conditions that affect memory, reasoning, and communication. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type. Other forms include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
As the brain changes, people may experience:
Difficulty finding words or following conversations
Repeating questions or forgetting names
Trouble organizing thoughts or staying on topic
Confusion about time, place, or familiar routines
Difficulty reading, writing, or using numbers
Increased frustration, withdrawal, or anxiety during communication
These challenges tend to progress over time—but with the right strategies, it’s possible to slow decline and maintain function longer.
How Speech Therapy Can Help
As a speech-language pathologist, I focus on maintaining communication and cognitive function for as long as possible. My therapy plans are individualized based on the person’s stage of dementia, strengths, goals, and daily environment.
I offer support in several key areas:
Memory strategies: Creating visual reminders, lists, or routines to support short-term memory
Word-finding support: Teaching cues or alternate ways to express ideas
Attention and sequencing exercises: Improving focus and daily task completion
Functional communication: Practicing phone calls, mealtime conversations, or asking for help
Reading and comprehension: Simplifying written materials or supporting understanding
Caregiver training: Coaching families on how to reduce confusion, create structure, and support communication at home
Even small improvements in communication can ease frustration, reduce anxiety, and improve relationships.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Routine
Many people with dementia benefit from having a structured, familiar routine. In therapy, I help families develop visual schedules, written cue cards, or simple tools to reduce confusion and support independence. We may also work on safety awareness, such as using memory aids for medication or meal planning.
Preserving Dignity and Connection
Communication is at the heart of relationships. Even when words are lost, there are still ways to connect—through gestures, music, photographs, and eye contact. My work includes helping families find meaningful ways to maintain connection, even as verbal abilities decline.
Therapy is not just about speech—it’s about preserving identity, promoting safety, and supporting moments of clarity and connection.
Where I Work
I provide therapy throughout Palm Beach County, including in-home sessions for individuals in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and surrounding areas. I also work with residents in memory care or assisted living settings.
Each plan is customized to meet the person where they are—whether in early-stage memory loss or later-stage dementia.
Let’s Talk About What’s Possible
If someone you love is living with dementia, you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to help with practical strategies, professional guidance, and ongoing support.
Contact me to learn more or schedule an initial consultation.