A virtual speech therapist for individuals with parkinson's disease

This article describes a computer program that uses a lifelike animated computer to conduct LSVT speech therapy. LSVT, Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, is an effective speech therapy that teaches individuals with Parkinson disease to think and speak loudly. Over ten years of clinical research have documented pre to post-treatment improvements in the voice and speech of individuals with Parkinson disease, and their post-treatment reports provide evidence of improvements in neural functioning (PET) as well as self confidence and self esteem . While LSVT is effective, there are significant barriers to providing widespread treatment. Barriers to introducing behavioral treatments for neurological disorders include informing and convincing physicians about the value of the treatment, mobility and access limitations of the clients, and developing reimbursement models that assure access to treatment by patients. Computer-based LSVT offers an accessible and affordable alternative to clinician-administered LSVT, that individuals could use in the comfort of their homes. We describe research and development efforts leading to a fully functional LSVT Virtual Therapist system and provide results for the first patient tested.