Speech disorders associated with Parkinson's disease and certain movement disorders are characterized by poor voice quality, decreased vocal volume, reduced range of motion in speech organs, unwanted movements during speech, and non-fluent speech patterns.

The negative effects of Parkinson's disease and certain movement disorders on speech not only disrupt speech intelligibility and communication but also impact psychological well-being and quality of life. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis in the early stages is important for reducing the potential effects of speech and/or swallowing disorders caused by the disease.

Swallowing problems can be observed from the early stages of Parkinson's disease and certain movement disorders. Although the exact cause of swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) is not fully understood, it is commonly seen among patients. Disruptions related to swallowing may often go unnoticed by both the patient and their caregivers without causing serious medical problems. However, swallowing difficulties can lead to discomfort during meals, difficulties in taking medications, weight loss, and serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia, which is caused by the aspiration of food or liquid into the lungs.

Therapies for speech and swallowing disorders are individually planned for each patient. In this context, therapy for swallowing includes strong swallowing exercises, expiratory muscle strength training, and modifications in food consistency. Interventions for speech involve vocal hygiene, traditional speech, and voice therapy, as well as contemporary approaches such as Lee Silverman Voice Therapy.