Speech and language

Poor speech clarity can result in a breakdown of communication both in and out of the workplace, and can have a negative effect on a person's wellbeing.

Speech clarity can be affected due to both physical and or cognitive difficulties including:

• poor muscle control affecting the tongue and mouth
• deafness and hearing impairment
• neurological impairment
• speech and language disorders
• English as a second language. 

Workplace solutions and adjustments

There are many different options available that promote speech clarity or can produce spoken words for a person who requires support in this area.  Products such as voice output software speech technology can aid people who are unable to use natural speech to meet all of their communication needs:

• screen reading software

When using their own speech without aids, employers and co-workers can support a person who has trouble with speech clarity by:

• allowing extra time to talk so they can be involved in conversations
• asking them to repeat what they have said instead of pretending it was understood
• allowing them to use index cards with instructions rather than verbal instructions.

A Speech Pathologist may be able to assist someone with poor speech clarity by addressing:

• strength of voice output
• vocal range
• speed
• coordination of muscular control.

For more information on finding a Speech Pathologist, please see:

• cognition and communication specialists

References

Mater Health and Wellness Clinic 2010, Speech Pathology, Mater Misericordiae Health Services, Brisbane, viewed 20 May 2010, <http://wellness.mater.org.au/services/speech/>.

Royal Rehabilitation Centre 2006, Dysarthria, Royal Rehabilitation Centre, Sydney, viewed 20 May 2010, http://www.royalrehab.com.au/publications/DysarthriaBrochure.pdf.

Would you like more information?

• Oral expression
• Speech and language
• Speech clarity
• Using another language
• Using expressive language
• Verbal articulation (speaking aloud)