Why Is My Speech Getting Quieter?

Have you or someone you love noticed your voice is getting quieter? Are people asking you to repeat yourself more often—or saying they can’t hear you, especially in noisy places? If you’re living with Parkinson’s or another neurological condition, this change might feel frustrating, isolating, or even frightening. But there is help—and hope.

Let’s explore why this happens and how speech therapy can help you get your voice back.

Why Does Parkinson’s Affect My Voice?

Parkinson’s affects the part of your brain that controls movement. This includes the tiny muscles involved in speaking. As a result, you might:

• Speak more quietly than you realise

• Sound hoarse or breathy

• Run out of breath mid-sentence

• Struggle to start speaking or keep your words flowing

Many people don’t notice the change in their own voice at first. It often takes a family member or friend pointing it out before it becomes clear that something has changed.

It’s Not Just About Being Heard

When your voice gets quieter, it can lead to:

• Feeling left out of conversations

• Letting others speak for you

• Avoiding social situations like restaurants or phone calls

• Losing confidence in your ability to connect with others

One of our clients said:
“I just stopped speaking up. What’s the point, if no one can hear me anyway?”

This loss of independence can affect your mood, your relationships, and your sense of self.

The Good News: You Can Get Your Voice Back

Voice changes are common in Parkinson’s—but they are treatable. The earlier you get support, the better your results can be.

Helen McLean offers specialist speech therapy for adults with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions. She uses evidence-based approaches like LSVT LOUD®, which is designed specifically to help people speak more clearly and loudly.

With the right support, many people:

• Regain control of their voice

• Speak more clearly and confidently

• Feel understood in conversations again

• Reconnect with loved ones and enjoy social events

What Is LSVT LOUD®?

LSVT LOUD® (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) is a gold-standard speech therapy program designed for people with Parkinson’s. It helps retrain your brain to use a stronger voice.

It’s structured, effective, and gets results. Many clients notice improvements within weeks—even if they’ve had symptoms for years.

What to Expect from Therapy

At your first appointment, Helen will:

• Listen to your concerns

• Carry out a gentle voice assessment

• Set clear goals based on what matters to you (like ordering in a café or chatting with your grandkids)

• Create a plan that works with your schedule—home visits, online sessions, or in-clinic

Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to accept a fading voice as your new normal. Speech therapy can help you be heard, understood, and confident again.

Your voice still matters. Let’s work together to bring it back.