The Shift: Parkinson's, Communication, Health & Living Well
A collection of practical insights, clinical expertise, and real-life perspective to help you communicate more confidently, navigate Parkinson's disease, support loved ones, and live with greater resilience.
Written by Jessica Ackerman, MS, CCC-SLP, RYT, Speech-Language Pathologist and Yoga Teacher, these articles explore Parkinson's communication, voice, swallowing, cognition, caregiving, health, mindset, and the everyday moments that shape quality of life.
Because how you think, communicate, and connect shapes how you live.
Learn. Grow. Stay connected. Live with greater clarity and confidence.
Different Communities, Same Mission
At first glance, teaching yoga to a group of women celebrating a milestone weekend and supporting someone navigating Parkinson's disease may seem worlds apart.
Yet I don't see them that way.
Both experiences are rooted in helping people access their fullest selves.
Both rely on the power of breath.
Both recognize the connection between body and mind.
Both create opportunities for participation, confidence, and connection.
Both remind us that wellness is about more than physical health. It is about how we show up in our lives and relationships.
Communication Tips for Parkinson's Care Partners
Parkinson's affects more than movement. It can affect conversations, relationships, and connection with the people who matter most. As a care partner, your support plays a powerful role. Small adjustments in how conversations are approached can reduce frustration, strengthen communication, and help preserve the meaningful connections that contribute so much to quality of life. Speak Steady is an online Parkinson's voice, speech, and communication program developed by Jessica Ackerman, MS,CCC-SLP and includes Caregiver Support Resources.
Parkinson's Speech Therapy at Home: What Are Your Options?
Most people with Parkinson's are trying very hard to communicate. The issue is not motivation or effort. The issue is that Parkinson's changes the way the brain controls movement, and speech is one of the most complex motor activities we perform. Speaking requires coordination and a unique technique can help. Speak Steady is an online Parkinson's voice, speech, and communication program developed by Jessica Ackerman, MS,CCC-SLP. Designed for self-paced use at home, Speak Steady helps individuals improve vocal loudness, speech intelligibility, breathing, cognition, and everyday communication.
Why "Talk Louder" Doesn't Usually Solve Parkinson's Speech Problems
Most people with Parkinson's are trying very hard to communicate. The issue is not motivation or effort. The issue is that Parkinson's changes the way the brain controls movement, and speech is one of the most complex motor activities we perform. Speaking requires coordination and a unique technique can help. Speak Steady is an online Parkinson's voice, speech, and communication program developed by Jessica Ackerman, MS,CCC-SLP. Designed for self-paced use at home, Speak Steady helps individuals improve vocal loudness, speech intelligibility, breathing, cognition, and everyday communication.
Why People with Parkinson's Develop a Softer Voice
Parkinson's disease often causes a softer voice, reduced voice loudness, and communication difficulties. Here, discover treatment options that can help improve speech and communication with Speak Steady, an online Parkinson's voice, speech, and communication program developed by Jessica Ackerman, MS,CCC-SLP. Designed for self-paced use at home, Speak Steady helps individuals improve vocal loudness, speech intelligibility, breathing, cognition, and everyday communication.
Parkinson’s Voice, Speech, and Quality of Life: Why Communication Deserves More Than “Speak Louder”
Voice and speech changes are some of the most frustrating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This article explores why communication is often overlooked, and how clinically grounded, movement-based speech therapy can restore confidence and quality of life.
Epic habits to make your routine flow.