Plena Speech Pathologists Laura Blasdale and Stefanie Gani had the opportunity to attend the annual Speech Pathology Australia conference in Perth this year.
With continuous professional development for speech pathologists important for providing safe, effective and culturally responsive services, Plena supports its clinicians to stay up to date on the latest research and thinking around evidence-based therapy and treatment.
In contrast to previous conferences, many of the presentations in 2024 featured new research on how to support adults with communication and swallowing difficulties.
With over one million Australians experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties at some point in their lives, we are passionate about the role speech pathology plays in enhancing overall confidence, wellbeing and dignity.
A true highlight of the event was keynote speaker Maggie-Lee Huckabee. Maggie-Lee is much admired by many adult-servicing Speech Pathologists, and her presentation focused on the evolution of research around skills–based swallow training, complementing the current knowledge we have around strengths–based swallow training.
This new body of evidence adds to our toolkit and provides significant consideration for future practice in swallow rehabilitation.
Another highlight was a study conducted at a local hospital highlighting the human-life, wellbeing and cost savings of supporting patients oral hygiene by brushing twice a day. This research adds to a growing body of evidence that shows that the incidence of aspiration pneumonia is significantly reduced in people with clean mouths. It highlighted the need to support hospitals and aged care facilities with education on how to support someone to brush their teeth, when they’re unable to do so independently.
In line with recommendations in the incoming strengthened standards, this showcases the need for diligent oral health care for all residents living in care. Plena Speech Pathologists are able to support staff in training for this skill.
The final talk for the conference highlighted ethical considerations around the use of AI in speech pathology. The lively debate concluded that it should be considered as an adjunct to the work of speech pathologists, not a replacement – allowing us to work smarter not harder, while offering individuals access to unsupported aids to assist with everyday tasks.
Plena Speech Pathologists provide services to directly to individuals requiring support, and also work closely with residential aged care facilities to support education and best practice amongst their clinical and care teams.
If you’d like to learn more about how a Plena Speech Pathologist can support you, get in touch with our friendly team.
