6. Difficulty in Language Expression – The Struggle to Communicate in PDD
Language difficulties are another symptom commonly experienced in PDD. Patients may struggle with word-finding, sentence construction, and maintaining the flow of conversation. These language difficulties are distinct from the speech problems associated with Parkinson’s disease, such as slurred or soft speech, and are instead due to cognitive impairment.
Language difficulties in PDD often begin subtly, with patients taking a little longer to find the right words or occasionally losing track of conversations. As the disease progresses, these problems can become more pronounced.
Patients may struggle to express their thoughts clearly, or they may repeat phrases or stories. In advanced stages, communication can become significantly impaired, affecting social interactions and daily functioning.
These language difficulties can have far-reaching implications. They can lead to frustration, social withdrawal, and feelings of isolation.
Communication, a fundamental aspect of human interaction, becomes a source of stress rather than connection. Early identification of these language difficulties can lead to effective interventions, including speech and language therapy, which can significantly enhance the patient’s communication skills and overall quality of life. (6)
