Using Digital Tools in Speech Therapy
In this lecture, speech therapist Lea Kübar discusses the application of technology in speech therapy, particularly for children and adults. She highlights how digital apps and platforms enhance the effectiveness of therapy, motivate patients, and improve therapeutic methods.
Key Points of the Lecture:
- Alternative Communication Tools: Technology for patients with speech difficulties allows communication through images, symbols, and text. Specialized tablet applications, such as Communicator 5, help individuals express themselves, even if they cannot speak independently.
- Motor Function Apps: Apps for speech apparatus correction aid in improving the functions of the tongue, lips, and jaw, as well as articulation clarity. An example is the free exercises available on YouTube, suitable for children to practice at home.
- Mobile Therapy Apps: Visual timers and digital tools, such as the mouse timer or metronome, help patients practice their skills more effectively.
- Language Development Apps: Therapy apps with various functions, such as sounds, videos, and images, are utilized. An essential tool is the Papunet app, offering a large image library for comprehension and grammar exercises.
- Voice Therapy Programs: Modern apps like Voice Tools and Sound Meter enable patients to train voice pitch and strength. The Loud and Clear app is particularly suitable for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
Lea emphasizes the importance of creatively using a single tool for multiple purposes in therapy, which allows optimal use of digital technology without requiring a vast number of different apps.
