September 2024 Content Roundup

Welcome to Spoken’s content roundup! As always, we’ve gathered a trove of interesting stories that we’re excited to share.

Technology and Communication

Specialist Badges Developed To Help People With Invisible Disabilities on Public Transport

Researchers from King’s College London have developed wearable devices to help people with speech and language challenges communicate more easily on public transport without drawing unwanted attention. These discreet badges were designed to reduce stigma and make daily interactions simpler for people with conditions like aphasia. Check out this article for more information about these useful new devices.

A Neurological Disease Stole Rep. Jennifer Wexton’s Voice. AI Helped Her Get It Back.

You might remember US Representative Jennifer Wexton making headlines in May 2024 when she became the first person to address Congress using AAC. Recently, there’s been an exciting update: with the help of ElevenLabs’ voice cloning technology, Wexton has been able to regain a voice that closely resembles her original. NPR has the full story.

Speech Spotlight

Preparing for Election Day With a Communication Condition

Election Day is right around the corner in the United States, and people with communication disorders may wish to participate. Lingraphica has offered tips for participating in November’s presidential election if you have trouble speaking, including a list of important phrases to prepare. It might just be the perfect opportunity to use Spoken’s saved phrases feature.

Note: This article was written in 2023 and mentions last year’s election date. 2024’s election is Tuesday, November 5.

Aphasia Awareness

After a Stroke, This Musician Found His Singing Voice Again With Help From a Special Choir

After a stroke left him partially paralyzed and struggling to speak, former musician Ron Spitzer found a way to reclaim his voice by joining a choir composed of stroke survivors. Each week, he joins others who understand his journey in making music a central part of their recovery. Check out the AP’s article for more details about this special choir and the science behind music’s healing power.

Important Updates

Medicare Issues 2025 Proposed Payment Policies for Outpatient Services

In unfortunate news, Medicare has proposed changes for 2025 that could lower payments to speech and language professionals and limit telehealth options. This could directly affect people with speech and language challenges by reducing access to necessary care, especially from home. These changes might make it harder for you to get the support you need. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has the full details here.

Make sure to check out the previous roundup for more stories!