Published on Feb. 17, 2026
Imagine speaking and your voice gradually fading until others can’t hear you. For many living with Parkinson’s disease, decreased volume, monotone speech, and a lack of facial expression aren’t just symptoms — they’re barriers to connection. These changes can lead to isolation and frustration, but help is closer than you think.
MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center is empowering Parkinson’s patients to rediscover their voices through a two-part specialized speech therapy program developed by Parkinson Voice Project®: SPEAK OUT!® and SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Group. This program is designed to increase vocal strength, improve swallowing safety, and boost social confidence — key challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
“Speech therapy is an essential part of Parkinson’s care,” says Melanie Weng, M.S., speech-language pathologist and Certified SPEAK OUT! Provider at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center. “With the right training and consistent practice, patients can regain and maintain their voice.”
Up to 90% of people with Parkinson’s Disease will experience a change in their voice and speech, making communication difficult. Through targeted therapy, patients can achieve:
- A stronger, clearer voice
- Greater confidence in social settings
- Improved quality of life through stronger connections
“Seeing patients and their families light up when their voices are strong again is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.”
- Melanie Weng
SPEAK OUT! is a one-on-one therapy program that teaches patients to speak and live with intent. Using deliberate effort improves communication by increasing speech clarity. Swallowing with intent increases muscle strength, reducing the risk of something entering the lungs and causing an infection, which is a problem known as aspiration pneumonia.
SPEAK OUT! Therapy Group is a weekly class that offers ongoing practice, encouragement, and support to maintain progress. “It’s use it or lose it when it comes to voice and swallow function in Parkinson’s,” says Weng. “The group gives a supportive community to keep them motivated to practice and retain their intentional voice and swallow”.
MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center is one of the few locations in the area offering both programs for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. With individualized therapy, group support, and expert guidance, patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.
“People with Parkinson’s don’t use their muscles to their fullest capacity,” Weng explains. “Living with intent sustains the amplitude of voice and swallow muscles, helping people continue to do what they love and connect with others.”
