Communication Fitness - Redux (revised from April 23, 2017) w/ M. Elwer

Communication Fitness: A Fun Guide to Staying Sharp Good morning, and thank you for joining us today! Each month, we offer community talks on staying healthy—and this time, we're diving into something you might not think about often: keeping your communication and swallowing skills strong. Before we go further—quick show of hands: Can everyone hear and understand me okay? Great! That check-in is actually a perfect example of what we’re talking about today—being mindful of how we connect and communicate.

Why Prevention Matters Just like you hit the gym or eat healthier to stay fit, you can also take steps to prevent problems with speaking, understanding, and swallowing. No doctor’s prescription needed—just smart, simple habits you can work into daily life. Simple Daily Habits That Help Primary prevention is about reducing your risk before a problem starts. Here are some fun ways to keep your voice and swallowing muscles strong: - Sing your favorite songs—yes, even in the shower! - Blow bubbles through a straw into a glass of water.

- Spit watermelon seeds for distance (just for fun!). - Try to blow a tissue across the table using only your breath. Who Helps with Prevention? Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) don’t just help after problems show up—we’re also here to help you stay well. Sometimes we work directly with you; other times, we consult with singing teachers, doctors, or even wellness coaches to help support your voice and swallowing strength. The Bigger Picture We need more tools, teamwork, and awareness around prevention in our profession. SLPs should be paid for this valuable work—because helping people stay well can mean fewer problems later. Prevention is proactive, empowering, and effective. So next time you breathe deeply, sing a tune, or enjoy a meal—know that you're doing something good for your future self. Let’s keep communication fun, fit, and full of life! Can I get a show of hands—who’s ready to give prevention a try?