Communication
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Communication/Speech
In Huntington's Disease
A defect or loss of language function in which the comprehension or expression of words (or nonverbal equivalents of words) is impaired. Read more about it.
 
Resources for parents whose children have speech difficulties.
 
The following list summarizes problems that people with HD may experience at different stages of the disease. In many cases, a person with HD will experience the same areas of difficulty throughout the course of the disease, with severity varying from stage to stage.
 
Causes of Miscommunication-Dr. Paulsen- Excerpts from Dr. Paulsen's Understanding Behavior in HD covering various causes of miscommunication and helpful hints. Download Word
 
By Amy Scholten, MPH - Problems with communication vary in type and severity among individuals with Huntington's disease. Be aware that these problems can be particularly scary, frustrating, embarrassing and isolating for the affected person. Common speech-related problems include: [see link]
 
Excerpts from this guide on how cognitive difficulties in HD affect language.
 
Excerpts from this guide on Dysarthria in Huntington's Disease.
 

Information on the difficulties and importance of communication between  the person with HD and their carer.  Description of  the Communication Book I made to help temporary carers communicate with Kelly in my absence.

Communication Problems-Neurological Diseases - General, discusses several neurological conditions including HD.
 
HD UK Fact Sheet #9 132k PDF Format

Communication Strategies For Those With HD - excerpts from this excellent article written by Jeff Searle, MS

Language [Misarticulation, Speech Initiation]  The most prominent language difficulties in people with HD are (1) speaking clearly (articulation), (2) starting conversation (initiation), and (3) organizing what’s coming in and going out.-A Physician's Guide to The Management of Huntington's Disease, 2nd Edition Chapter 4 - The Cognitive Disorder

Excerpts from Dr. Paulsen's Understanding Behavior on good approaches to communication in Huntington's Disease.
 
Excerpts from Lynn's article discussing Speech and Swallowing in Huntington's Disease.  The importance of speech therapy and more.
 
Some excellent strategies from the U. of Virginia HD unit.
 
ADA Fact Sheet for People with Huntington Disease
 
Strategies for Speaking and Eating With HD - Article by Jeanne Thomson, HDSA Marker 2000