Voice studies in Parkinson and other neurologic diseases

Past and Present Research: Through research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH-NIDCD), the Office of Education (OE-NIDRR), and numerous private foundations (Davis Phinney Foundation, Parkinson's Alliance), past and present members of the Parkinson's Team have studied the effects of behavioral, surgical and pharmaceutical interventions on speech and voice disorders in Parkinson's disease and other neurological disorders. Much of this research has centered around the effectiveness of intensive voice therapy (LSVT®) for improving speech and voice in PD. However, current efforts also extend to the study of non-speech behaviors, including swallow function and nonverbal communication.

Current projects include:

• The study of alternate speech therapies for Parkinson's disease
• Voice treatment for individuals with Parkinson's disease following Deep Brain Stimulation surgery (STN-DBS)
• The effects of early speech intervention on neuroplasticity
• Examination of acoustical markers of PD for earlier detection of the disease
• Applying principles of intensive voice therapy to physical therapy in Parkinson's disease.

To learn more about the historical development of the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, read the attached narrative.

The Archie Smith Fund for Parkinson's Research: In response to an outpouring of requests for information about donations in memory of Denver Center Theatre Company Actor Emeritus Archie Smith, who passed away in June 2004, his family has established two funds in his memory. One of these funds is The Archie Smith Fund for Parkinson's Research at the NCVS. This fund is designated to assist the nationally recognized research programs at the NCVS which address the vocal challenges of persons with Parkinson's disease. Mr. Smith suffered from the effects of Parkinson's disease, and received the clinically proven Lee Silverman Voice Treatment from our clinicians. Tax-deductible donations should be sent to: The Archie Smith Fund for Parkinson's Research, Development Office, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, 1101 13th Street, Denver, CO 80204.

Learn more about the Parkinson Team at the DCPA