Words - More Than Just Talk

Words are the building blocks of communication. They express our emotions and help communicate our needs. But some people can't use the words - they have a communication disorder. Disorders can affect their ability to speak or prevent them from understanding. Impaired swallowing resulting from disease or damage to the cranial nerves or brain stem can be defined as dysphagia. It can affect any age group, but most often presents among the elderly. As many as 40% of nursing home residents across the United States suffer from some degree of swallowing disability. Thanks to the Medical Speech-Language Pathologist's knowledge of swallowing anatomy, manuevers, strategies and exercises these individuals are now receiving specialized therapy that is covered by Medicare and private insurance. Speech-Language Pathologists use computer technology, language, oral motor exercises and other techniques to help individuals with their neurological deficits. Certified and licensed Speech-Language Pathologists practice independently and in institutions like rehabilitation centers, hospitals, schools and universities. Most are certified members of the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association and are licensed in one or more states.

Annette Capella received her Master's & Bachelor of Science degrees in Communicative Disorders from the University of Central Florida and graduated with honors. She has been published in national journals with her research in language disorders and dialects during her graduate studies. Her career has included a variety of clinical settings and specialties, including providing services to clients of varying ages in hospitals, schools, home health, skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities. She has been employed as a regional rehab director. Areas of interest include working with adults with speech, language and cognitive disorders. She has extensive knowledge of swallowing disorders in particular. Annette is a native English speaker (born in Boston, Massachusettes), and has fluency in Spanish. She has treated foreign clients in accent reduction. She is a certified member of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association, (ASHA) the Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists & Audiologists (FLASHA).

Annette is in independent practice and licensed in Florida and North Carolina.