Enhancing Communication, Cognition, and Swallowing for Better Quality of Life

Specialized speech-language pathology services (SLP) that go far beyond articulation issues are available across the 28 revered campuses of Acts. Here, expert speech therapists assess and treat a wide range of communication, cognitive, and swallowing disorders common in older adults. Through evidence-based interventions, we help seniors regain abilities that are crucial for independence, social interaction, and nutrition. Find speech therapy for seniors near you to get started.

What are the Benefits of Speech Therapy for Seniors?

Geriatric speech therapy can improve: 

  • Verbal communication: Helping with articulation, fluency, and voice strength affected by age-related vocal changes, stroke, or neurological disease 

  • Cognitive-communication: Addressing memory loss, word-finding difficulties, and executive dysfunction in individuals with dementia or mild cognitive impairment 

  • Swallowing disorders (dysphagia): Evaluating and treating unsafe swallowing patterns to prevent aspiration pneumonia and malnutrition 

  • Social interaction: Rebuilding confidence in conversations, leading to improved mental health and reduced isolation 

Common conditions treated include: 

  • Aphasia (language impairment due to stroke) 

  • Apraxia (difficulty coordinating speech movements) 

  • Dysarthria (slurred speech due to muscle weakness) 

  • Dementia-related communication difficulties 

  • Parkinson’s-related speech and swallowing issues 

Acts’ Services in Speech Therapy for Seniors 

At any of Acts’ 28 campuses, our speech-language pathology (SLP) services will address the comprehensive communication, cognitive, and swallowing needs of older adults. Licensed SLPs specialize in the unique challenges of aging, delivering personalized care that supports safety, mental engagement, and social connection.

Communication Rehabilitation

Restoring Clarity, Fluency, and Connection

Older adults may face speech and language impairments as a result of: 

  • Stroke or traumatic brain injury 

  • Parkinson’s disease or ALS 

  • Dementia or Alzheimer's disease 

  • Age-related vocal fold changes 

  • Our SLPs assess and treat: 

  • Aphasia (difficulty understanding or producing language) 

  • Apraxia (inability to plan motor movements for speech) 

  • Dysarthria (slurred or weak speech due to muscle weakness) 

  • Voice disorders (hoarseness, breathiness, vocal fatigue) 

Treatment may include: 

  • Articulation drills and sound shaping 

  • Breath support exercises and vocal hygiene techniques 

  • Communication strategy training (e.g., chunking, visual cues) 

  • Use of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) systems, including speech-generating devices for residents with severe impairments 

The focus is on restoring functional communication for improved engagement and quality of life.

Cognitive-Linguistic Therapy 

Supporting Memory, Reasoning, and Daily Thinking Skills

Cognitive-linguistic therapy is vital for residents experiencing: 

  • Early-stage dementia or Alzheimer’s 

  • Mild cognitive impairment 

  • Post-stroke cognitive deficits 

Therapists use a variety of speech therapy tools to help seniors retain and use executive function skills such as: 

  • Short- and long-term memory 

  • Attention and concentration 

  • Problem-solving and planning 

  • Visual-spatial reasoning 

  • Orientation and safety awareness 

Training is often reinforced with external aids like memory books, electronic reminders, checklists, or task planners. Care partners are coached on how to support these systems at home or in care settings.

Swallowing Therapy (Dysphagia Management) 

Preventing Aspiration and Supporting Safe Nutrition

Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) are common in aging and particularly prevalent in individuals with: 

  • Stroke 

  • Parkinson’s disease 

  • Head and neck cancer 

  • Advanced dementia 

At Acts, our SLPs perform clinical and instrumental swallowing assessments (in collaboration with physicians or radiology when needed). Based on findings, we develop customized therapy plans that may include: 

  • Swallowing exercises to improve muscle strength and coordination 

  • Dietary modifications (e.g., pureed foods, thickened liquids) 

  • Safe feeding strategies and posture training 

  • Caregiver education on feeding assistance and aspiration precautions 

Our primary goal is to prevent aspiration pneumonia, choking, and malnutrition — while preserving dignity and enjoyment of meals.

Social Communication and Group Sessions 

Fostering Community and Confidence

To combat isolation and support psychosocial well-being, Acts offers small-group therapy and conversational training. These sessions help residents: 

  • Practice speech in real-life scenarios 

  • Rebuild confidence in public speaking or social settings 

  • Use non-verbal communication effectively 

We also provide support for residents transitioning from skilled nursing to independent living, helping them retain gains through continuity of care.

Through all these modalities, senior speech therapy at Acts is about restoring the ability to connect — to communicate thoughts, share stories, and participate fully in daily life.

Therapy Services at Acts Include: 

  • Clinical swallowing evaluations and modified diet recommendations 

  • Language and cognitive therapy using digital tools and memory exercises 

  • Voice therapy to improve projection and clarity 

  • Training in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices if needed 

  • Family education to support communication strategies at home

Find Speech Therapy for Seniors Near You 

Acts’ communities offer full-time, in-house speech therapy services within our wellness centers and skilled nursing facilities. Our SLPs work collaboratively with physicians, dietitians, and caregivers to develop interdisciplinary care plans. Whether for short-term rehab or long-term support, seniors benefit from accessible, high-quality speech therapy close to home — or right at home if they are already a resident.

When you or a loved one is ready, find the campus closest to you.

Backed By the Strength of Acts 

As the nation’s largest not-for-profit owner, operator, and developer of continuing care retirement communities, Acts has a 50-year legacy of success. Our mission-driven approach, guided by Christian values, prioritizes the well-being of those we serve. As an industry leader with 27 senior care facilities across nine states, we are financially strong and stable, with the resources to deliver excellence and lead the way in innovation. As you plan for your future, Acts is an organization you can depend on and trust.

Visit Actsretirement.org