Some tips to improve communication include:

• Choose a quiet, low-noise space. Turn off televisions, radios and other devices that create distracting background noise. 

• Speak slowly.

• Use short phrases. Say one or two words or syllables per breath.

• Plan periods of vocal rest before planned conversations or phone calls. Know that fatigue significantly affects your ability to speak. Techniques that work in

• the morning might not work later in the day.

• Keep your throat hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Don’t drink beverages containing caffeine or alcohol. Use a humidifier if the air in your home is dry.

• Try to sit in an upright posture, with a straight chin, slightly lifted neck to improve airflow from lungs to your vocal cords.

• If you are naturally soft spoken and your voice has become low or harder to hear for others, consider using an amplifier.