New CGH voice and movement group helps Parkinson's patients using 'big' moves

PUBLISHED ON OCT 10, 2014 1:10 PM 

 

BY KASH CHEONG

SINGAPORE - A new voice and movement group in Changi General Hospital (CGH) is helping Parkinson's patients speak louder and move better.

Started in April this year, four to six Parkinson's patients gather weekly to perform exaggerated actions while attempting to project their voice. Prompted by occupational and speech therapists, patients may sing while extending their bodies sideways or shout their names while stretching their bodies forward.

About 50 patients have gone through this therapy. While most are from CGH's inpatient group, it will be extended to outpatient clients in December. 

The focus is on thinking "big" and "loud" as Parkinson's patients struggle with fine motor movements and a soft voice, said CGH senior speech therapist Betty Wong. Parkinson's patients may also suffer from hand tremors, slow movements, rigidity or be unstable in standing and sitting. Their voices also become softer as the disease progresses.

Parkinson's patient Mrs Yeo Jui Hoon, 84, undergoes a new Voice and Movement Group Therapy with (right) Senior Occupational Therapist Tan Xuan Hong at Changi General Hospital. -- ST PHOTO: SEAH KWANG PENG 

 

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