Information & Resources
This page is in development.
Dementia and Communication Interventions
Learn about how communication changes with dementia and what interventions are available.
Brochure: Stroke and Communication
Learn how communication may be impacted after a stroke and what can be gained through treatment.
Brochure Information Sheet (coming soon)
Adult Communication Disorders: Causes, Descriptions, and Accessing Support
Read about some of the reasons why adults seek professional support for a communication disability and what they may hope to gain.
Childhood and Adolescent Communication Disorders: Descriptions and Accessing Support
Read about some of the communication delays/disorders experienced by children and teenagers and how an S-LP can help.
Early Communication Development
and Late Talkers
Read about language milestones up to age 2 1/2 years, what 'Late Talker' means, and when to seek professional advice.
Aphasia
Stroke4Carers (Scotland)
http://www.stroke4carers.org/?cat=23&p=280
Aphasia Institute (Toronto, Ontario)
Aphasia Etiquette (BBC)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTh86NoQh7Q
NIDCD Fact Sheet - Aphasia
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/sites/default/files/Documents/health/voice/Aphasia.pdf
National Aphasia Association (USA)
Local
Aphasia Nova Scotia
https://www.aphasianovascotia.ca/
InteRACT
https://www.dal.ca/sites/interact.html
Acquired Apraxia of Speech
Written for members of the public:
Written for health professionals:
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
"Evidence Based Clinical Research: Apraxia of Speech"
https://www.ancds.org/evidence-based-clinical-research#Acquired%20Aprazia%20of%20Speech
Autism Spectrum Disorders
National Autism Center at May Institute
"A Parent's Guide to Evidence-based Practice and Autism"
http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/resources/for-families/
National Autism Center. (2015). Findings and conclusions: National standards project, phase 2: Addressing the need for evidence-based practice guidelines for autism spectrum disorder. Randolph, MA: National Autism Center. Retrieved from http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/national-standards-project/
Oono, I. P., Honey, E. J., & McConachie, H. (2013). Parent-mediated early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2013(4). doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009774.pub2
Local
Autism Nova Scotia
http://campus.autismnovascotia.ca/default.php
Dementia
"The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in Dementia Care"
Speech-Language & Audiology Canada
https://www.sac-oac.ca/sites/default/files/resources/Dementia_Position-Statement_EN.pdf
"Person-Centred Focuse on Function: Dementia"
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.asha.org/uploadedfiles/icf-dementia.pdf
Local
Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia
"Caring for Someone with Progressive Dementia"
Province of Nova Scotia
https://811.novascotia.ca/health_topics/caring-for-someone-with-progressive-dementia/
True North Clinical Research
provide free memory screening in Nova Scotia
Behaviour, Cognition, and Communication in Dementia
2016 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures
Alzheimer’s Association
includes the Special Report on the Personal Financial Impact of Alzheimer’s on Families
https://www.alz.org/documents_custom/2016-facts-and-figures.pdf
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
http://www.ancds.org/information-for-clients-and-families
Cognitive Changes
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Cognitive-Changes
Cognitive Issues in Parkinson’s Disease
American Parkinson Disease Association
http://www.apdaparkinson.org/cognitive-issues-in-parkinsons-disease/
Diffuse Lewy Body Disease
Parkinson Canada
http://www.parkinson.ca/site/c.kgLNIWODKpF/b.8647145/k.6D4A/Diffuse_Lewy_Body_Disease.htm
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Program
video series for family caregivers on responding to behavioural symptoms of dementia
http://dementia.uclahealth.org/caregiver-education-videos
Cognition and MS
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
https://mssociety.ca/library/document/LrvdiAzUK01SbsCcafFt938eQhNP2IJ7/original.pdf
Communicating
Alzheimer’s Society
discusses changes in language and strategies for optimizing communication
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=130
Changes in Communication
CaringKind
briefly describes changes in communication and strategies for care partners
http://www.caringkindnyc.org/communication/
"Shifting Focus – A Guide to Understanding Dementia Behaviour"
Alzheimer Knowledge Exchange, Alzheimer Society Ontario, & Behavioural Supports Ontario
available in 8 languages
http://www.alzheimer.ca/en/on/We-can-help/Resources/Shifting-Focus
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Practice Portal – Dementia
http://www.asha.org/Practice-Portal/Clinical-Topics/Dementia/
Evidence Based Clinical Research – Progressive Neurogenic Communication Disorders
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
https://ancds.memberclicks.net/evidence-based-clinical-research#Dementia
Spaced Retrieval Step by Step
Jeanette E. Benigas, Jennifer A. Brush, and Gail M. Elliot
published by Health Professions Press
Systematic Review and Practice Recommendations for Use of Spaced-Retrieval Training with Individuals with Dementia
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
http://www.ancds.org/assets/docs/EBP/summary_technical_report_1_spaced-retrieval_training.pdf
Clinical Intervention for Cognitive-Communication Disorders of Dementia
"Best Practice Guideline for Accommodating and Managing Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia in Residential Care: A Person-Centered Interdisciplinary Approach"
Ministry of Health – British Columbia
http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/ publications/year/2012/bpsd-guideline.pdf
National Institute for Health Care Excellence: Dementia
https://pathways.nice.org.uk/pathways/dementia#content=view-index
"Cognitive-Communication Disorders of Dementia: Definition, Diagnosis, and Treatment (2nd ed.)"
K. A. Bayles & C. K. Tomoeda
published by Plural Publishing
"Dementia: Person-Centred Assessment and Intervention (2nd ed.)"
E. M. Hickey & M. S. Bourgeois
Published by Routledge
Hopper, T. L. (2003). “They’re just going to get worse anyway”: Perspectives on rehabilitation for nursing home residents with dementia. Journal of Communication Disorders, 36, 345-459. doi: 10.1016/S0021-99924(03)00050-9
Oren, S., Willerton, C., & Small, J. (2014). Effects of spaced retrieval training on semantic memory in Alzheimer’s disease: A systematic review. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 57, 247-270. doi:10.1044/1092-4388
Chiu, H.-Y., Chen, P.-Y., Chen, Y.-T., & Huang, H.-C. (2018). Reality orientation therapy benefits cognition in older people with dementia: A meta-analysis. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 86, 20-28.
Eggenberger, E., Heimerl, K., & Bennett, M. I. (2013). Communication skills training in dementia care: A systematic review of effectiveness, training content, and didactic methods in different care settings. International Psychogeriatrics, 25, 345–358. doi:10.1017/S1041610212001664
Swan, K., Hopper, M., Wenke, R., Jackson, C., Till, T., & Conway, E. (2018). Speech-language pathologist interventions for communication in moderate–severe dementia: A systematic review. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 27, 836-852. doi:10.1044/2017_AJSLP-17-0043
Resources for Memory and Communication Aids
"Memory Books and Other Graphic Cueing Systems: Practical Communication and Memory Aids for Adults with Dementia"
Michelle S. Bourgeois
published by Health Professions Press
"Memory and Communication Aids for People with Dementia"
Michelle S. Bourgeois
published by Health Professions Press
Best Alzheimer’s Products
consumer source for memory aids with voice recording features (e.g., talking photo album, talking tiles)
http://store.best-alzheimers-products.com/
"The Memory Handbook"
Alzheimer’s Society
information on memory, strategies, and aids for those with mild memory loss
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/download_info.php?fileID=2204
"Funding, Coding, and Documentation for Speech Generating Devices"
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
on demand webinar for professionals
Activities and Engagement
"101 Activities"
Alzheimer’s Association
https://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_101_activities.asp
"Activities to do with Your Parent who has Alzheimer’s Dementia"
Judity A. Levy
Ms. Levy is an Occupational Therapist with personal and professional experience with persons with Alzheimer’s dementia
published by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Alzheimer’s Store
products designed for persons with Alzheimer’s such as puzzles, therapy dolls, one button radio, simple music player, painting activities, games, and activity boards
http://www.alzstore.com/alzheimers-dementia-activities-s/1673.htm
Best Alzheimer’s Products
products for entertainment (e.g., simple music player, flipper remote control, one button radio, DVDs, Video Respite series, CDs), nurturing and comfort activities (e.g., dolls and stuffed animals), reading and photographic collections, colouring books, and other activities
http://store.best-alzheimers-products.com/
"Can Do Activities for Adults with Alzheimer’s Disease: Strength-based Communication and Programming"
Eileen Eisner
published by Pro-Ed Inc.
"Creating Moments of Joy (5th ed.)"
Jolene Brackey
published by Purdue University Press
Dementiability
information, workshops, videos, publications, and other resources on Montessori methods for dementia
http://www.dementiability.com/
"Engaging and Communicating With People Who Have Dementia: Finding and Using Their Strengths"
Eileen Eisner
published by Health Professions Press
Busy: The Dementia Activities Specialist
games, books, and activities for persons with dementia and professionals delivering group programs
http://keepingbusy.com/puzzles-for-dementia/
MindStart
products designed by an occupational therapist for persons with dementia for leisure and stimulation including puzzles, games, colouring books, word games, books, and lacing cards
http://www.mind-start.com/Alzheimers-and-dementia-products-from-MindStart.html
"Montessori-Based Activities for Persons with Dementia, Volumes 1 & 2"
Cameron J. Camp
published by Health Professions Press
My House of Memories app
National Museums Liverpool and Innovate Dementia
interactive collection of images, music, and information on objects from life in England from 1920-1980 to facilitate reminiscence and exploration of areas of interest
http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/learning/projects/house-of-memories/my-house-of-memories-app.aspx
"Taking Part: Activities for People with Dementia"
Alzheimer’s Society
Adult Literacy Resources
New Readers Press
publisher of books for English learners, including a series of easy-to-read books for pleasure reading
http://www.newreaderspress.com/pleasure-reading
News for You: available from New Readers Press
subscribers have access to easy-to-read news articles; text audio can be played in full or sentence-by-sentence
http://www.newreaderspress.com/news-for-you-online
News in Levels
post news stories from around the world written in three levels with the option to listen to the audio recording of the text; simplified text and audio recording of Robinson Crusoe is also available
Shadowbox Press
publisher of a collection of books for persons with dementia
https://www.shadowboxpress.com/products/conversation-cards-two-deck-set
Two-Lap Book series
Health Professions Press
http://www.healthpropress.com/product/two-lap-book-series/
Emma Rose Sparrow, author
series of books designed for persons with Alzheimer’s disease available through Amazon CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
https://www.amazon.com/Emma-Rose-Sparrow/e/B00N09DY10
Community Resources and Online Forums for Family and Care Providers
ALZConnected
online community forums for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and caregivers
Community Resource Finder
Alzheimer’s Association
http://www.communityresourcefinder.org/
Dementia Action Alliance Resources
collection of print and online resources such as Facebook pages, blogs, videos, websites, and books
http://daanow.org/resource-center/resources/
Dementia Forum
http://www.dementiaforum.org/discuss/forum/
Resources for Creating Supportive Environments and Communities
Dementia Enabling Environments
information for families, professionals, and members of the community
http://www.enablingenvironments.com.au/
Dementia Friendly America
tools and resources for supporting the development of dementia-friendly communities
Dementia-friendly Environments
Department of Health & Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Australia
information on enhancing the physical and social environment, wayfinding, stimulation, meaningful activities, spirituality, and related topics
https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/ageing-and-aged-care/dementia-friendly-environments
Dementia Friends USA and Dementia Friends Canada
provide information on how persons with dementia can be supported in their community
http://dementiafriendsusa.org/
http://www.dementiafriends.ca/
Advance Directives
"Dementia and End-of-Life Care"
Alzheimer Society of Canada
http://www.alzheimer.ca/~/media/Files/national/End-of-life-care/EoL_Part_I_e
Speak Up – Advance Care Planning
a source of information for consumers, families, and professionals; includes province-specific information for Canadians
http://www.advancecareplanning.ca/
"End-of-Life Decisions"
Alzheimer’s Association
information for consumers and families
http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_endoflifedecisions.pdf
End of Life Care
"Position Statement – The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists, Audiologists and Communication Health Assistants in End-of-Life Care, Speech-Language and Audiology Canada"
http://www.sac-oac.ca/sites/default/files/resources/end-of-life_position-statement_en.pdf
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
educational resources for professionals and consumer and family resources for end-of-life care
http://www.nhpco.org/resources/end-life-care--resources#Children-and-Family-Support
End of Life Resources and References
\American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.asha.org/SLP/End-of-Life-Resources/
Developing Dementia-Friendly Health Care Services
D:KIT, Dementia Action Alliance
a self-assessment toolkit to facilitate development of dementia friendly hospitals
http://www.dementiaaction.org.uk/dkit
Dementia Friendly Hospital Initiative
educational materials for hospital staff
http://www.alz.org/stl/in_my_community_62183.asp
What’s Design Got To Do With It?
Glen Hougan (professor at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design)
Mayo Clinic Center for Innovation
an introduction to the concept of design thinking in health care services and environments
http://blog.centerforinnovation.mayo.edu/2015/11/24/whats-design-got-to-do-with-it/
Written for health professionals:
"Evidence Based Clinical Research: Progressive Neurogenic Communication Disorders"
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
https://www.ancds.org/evidence-based-clinical-research#Acquired%20Aprazia%20of%20Speech
Dysarthria
"Evidence Based Clinical Research: Dysarthria"
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences
https://www.ancds.org/evidence-based-clinical-research#Dysarthria
Huntington's Disease
Huntington Society of Canada
https://www.huntingtonsociety.ca/
Language Development
"Why Interaction Matters"
The Hanen Centre
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAFcJVJHLCU
Late Talkers
"How to Tell if Your Child is a Late Talker and What to Do About It"
The Hanen Centre, by Lauren Lowry
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson Canada
LSVT Global
Parkinson’s Foundation
University of California San Francisco – Memory and Aging Center
https://memory.ucsf.edu/parkinson-disease-dementia
Johns Hopkins Medicine - Parkinson Disease and Dementia
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/nervous_system_disorders/parkinsons_disease_and_dementia_134,50
"What is Parkinson's Disease?"
Michael J. Fox Foundation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRLB7WqX0fU
"Raising Your Voice with Parkinson's"
Lee Health
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhfZ6wb1nHc
Local
Parkinson Canada - Dartmouth/Halifax Support Group
https://www.parkinson.ca/support-groups/dartmouth-halifax/
Research: LSVT LOUD
List of research studies conducted by the developers of LSVT LOUD:
https://blog.lsvtglobal.com/research/loud-reference/
Research: Comparisons Between Different Treatment Approaches for PD
Sackley, C. M., Smith, C. H., Rick, C. E., Brady, M. C., Ives, N., Patel, S., . . . Clarke, C. E. (2018). Lee Silverman Voice Treatment versus standard speech and language therapy versus control in Parkinson's disease: a pilot randomised controlled trial (PD COMM pilot). Pilot and Feasibility Studies, 4(30), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-017-0222-z
Sackley et al. (2018) completed a study to determine the feasibility of conducting a further randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing treatment effects between LSVT LOUD, standard speech/voice treatment, and no treatment in persons with PD that would have a large enough group of participants to achieve statistical power. Previous RCTs have not compared all three at once. These authors found that participants in both the LSVT LOUD and standard speech/voice treatment groups made gains on outcome measures.
Herd, C. P., Tomlinson, C. L., Deane, K. H. O., Brady, M. C., Smith, C. H., Sackley, C. M.,, & Clarke, C. E. (2012). Speech and language therapy for speech problems in Parkinson's disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2012(8). doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD002814.pub2
Right Hemisphere Cognitive Communication Deficits
Written for members of the public:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
"Right Hemisphere Brain Damage (RHD)"
https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/right-hemisphere-brain-damage/
Written for health professionals:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
"Right Hemisphere Damage"
https://www.asha.org/PRPSpecificTopic.aspx?folderid=8589943798§ion=Overview
Blake, M. L. (2018). The right hemisphere and disorders of cognition and communication: Theory and clinical practice. San Diego, CA: Plural.
Blake, M. L., Duffy, J. R., Myers, P. S., & Tompkins, C. A. (2002). Prevalence and patterns of right hemisphere cognitive/communicative deficits: Retrospective data from an inpatient rehabilitation unit. Aphasiology, 16, 537-547. doi: 10.1080/02687030244000194
Screen Time
"Policy Statement: Media and Young Minds"***
American Academy of Pediatrics
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/138/5/e20162591
"Policy Statement: Media Use in School-Aged Children and Adolescents"***
American Academy of Pediatrics
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/138/5/e20162592
"Screen Time" podcast
Seattle Mama Doc | Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson
https://soundcloud.com/seattlemamadoc/screen-time
"The Tech Effect: How Too Much Device Time May Be Taking a Toll on Today's Children"
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
"Handheld Screen Time Linked to Delayed Speech Development"
The ASHA Leader
https://leader.pubs.asha.org/article.aspx?articleid=2647387
Speech Sound Development
Phonological Processes - Little Bee Speech
Stuttering
"The Age Factor in Stuttering" by E. Yairi
https://www.stutteringhelp.org/sites/default/files/Migrate/Yairi_jan2006.pdf
Canadian Stuttering Association
"Top 3 Things When Meeting Someone who Stutters"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAU3IPFKIdk
Local
Halifax Support Group for People Who Stutter
https://www.sac-oac.ca/news-events/events/monthly-halifax-support-group-people-who-stutter
Voice
Transgender Voice
"Voice and Communication Change for Transgender People" by American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/Voice-and-Communication-Change-for-Transgender-People/