Absolutely! Adults who have lost their ability to communicate are at a significantly higher risk for social isolation, which can contribute to further cognitive and emotional decline. Even when someone’s verbal expression is reduced, they still benefit greatly from consistent social engagement, connection, and interaction.

If the participant agrees, then 100%! It is encouraged for family or caregivers to join in the session so they can learn how to best cue and support and the language/ cognition of their loved one.

Depending on the individual’s medical needs and abilities, it may be required that a caregiver is present. Please reach out to discuss.

Let’s Talk is more than a traditional social group, which is reflected in the cost.
It is designed and led by a licensed medical speech-language pathologist (SLP) with specialized expertise in communication disorders, cognitive-communication changes, memory loss, neurological conditions, and the natural aging process. Because of this, participants receive:

• Clinical-level support in a social setting including individualized cues, communication strategies, and modifications tailored to each participant’s needs.
• Evidence-based techniques that promote communication success, cognitive stimulation, and engagement, not just casual conversation or activities.
• Professional monitoring of communication, safety, and social participation, ensuring that every individual stays involved and feels confident.
• A personalized home visit and evaluation (when applicable) to understand strengths, challenges, and strategies that will maximize success during group sessions.
• Therapeutic-quality interactions without being formal speech therapy.

This level of training, preparation, and individualized attention goes far beyond what a typical senior social group can provide.

No, Let’s Talk is a social communication and engagement group, not individual speech therapy.

While Leah, a licensed speech-language pathologist, will provide cues, prompts, and guidance similar to what you might experience in speech therapy, the primary focus is on group interaction, conversation, and social engagement, not on addressing individualized therapy goals. For these reasons, insurance will not cover this service.

A home visit is a one-on-one appointment in the participant’s home where Leah, the speech-language pathologist, completes a personalized clinical evaluation to understand the individual’s language, speech, and cognitive abilities.

This will allow her to

• Learn and understand the individual’s communication style, strengths and needs
• Identify appropriate cues, strategies, or supports (e.g., visuals, AAC, pacing) that will benefit the individual during group sessions
• Build trust and familiarity before group participation
• Recommend speech therapy and assist with goal making, if warranted

A written evaluation will be provided, if requested, within one week of the evaluation via E-mail.

A home visit is not required, but it is strongly encouraged, especially for participants with a diagnosis affecting speech, language, or cognition.

While Let’s Talk takes place in a group setting, Leah provides individualized cues and prompts to support each participant’s communication abilities. If you have experienced changes in speech, language, or cognition, Leah will be better able to meet your needs when she has a clear understanding of your strengths and challenges. A home visit provides this insight and helps ensure you get the most benefit from the group.

Of course. If you notice coughing while eating or drinking, or the sensation of food “getting stuck,” please feel free to discuss this with Leah. She specializes in dysphagia (swallowing disorders) in the adult population and can provide guidance regarding safe eating strategies or recommend further evaluation if needed.