#Talkwithme Perth during Speech Pathology Week

Every day more than 1.1 million Australians have difficulty communicating, says local speech pathologist and blogger Alex Trichilo, who is raising awareness during Speech Pathology Week in the Perth and online community.

A recent Senate Inquiry highlighted that communication disorders are more prevalent or on-par with the number of people with diabetes and three times the number of those with dementia. Both of these conditions are national health priorities and attract significant attention and resourcing. Communication disorders, however, are largely invisible.

Communication is a basic human right. Each year Speech Pathology Australia hosts Speech Pathology Week to make Australians more aware of those in our community who have a speech or swallowing difficulty.

“It’s concerning to see the extent of communication disorders in our community. Such disorders contribute to poor educational outcomes, reduced employment opportunities and an increased likelihood of social, emotional and mental health issues,” said Alex Trichilo.

Three in every 1,000 newborns have hearing loss, which without intervention can affect their speech, language and literacy.

Around 13,000 Australians use electronic communication aids to get their message across, while 20 per cent of four year olds have difficulty understanding or using language.

But speech disorders don’t just affect the young. At least 30 per cent of people post-stroke suffer loss of language, with 85 per cent of those with Parkinson’s disease having voice, speech and/or swallowing difficulties.

These are the challenges that confront speech pathologists every day.

“Speech pathologists are specialists in all forms of communication. We work with people to maximise their ability to communicate in a way that best meets their needs and abilities,” said Alex.