A study and comparison the effect of age-related voice changes on the quality of life of the elderly and middle-aged

Abstract

Introduction: Natural process of aging is associated with biological events which alter the structure and function of different parts of the body. larynx also undergoes age-related anatomical and physiological changes during adulthood.. According to anatomical and physiological changes of Larynx, acoustic and perceptual characteristics of voice are modified as a result of age-related sequential changes. Due to mentioned changes, Restriction on voice producing, can have negative impact on different Aspects of Life such as social, functional, emotional, and physical fields. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of age-related voice changes on the quality of life of the elderly and middle-aged . Materials and Methods : This analytical study has been descriptive. The subjects were included40middle-aged individuals (Age group 50-60 years) as well as40 elders (Age group 60-70 years).After reviewing the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a study of Cognitive health of the elderly was conducted using the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE). Also, the quality of life was evaluated based on Voice Handicap Index (VHI).) .Then the overall score of VHI and sub-tests were calculated for each individual. The results were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics Results : Middle-aged group- adult population of working age- have received higher scores on voice handicap index compared to elderly and difference between two groups was significant.(P<0.05). Conclusion : In middle-aged group, the age-related anatomical and physiological changes of Larynx, have had more effects on daily Performance. Considering the fact that this group of adult has retained occupational and social functioning more than elders ,age-related voice changes, have had greater effects on their quality of life. Keywords: Voice handicap index, middle age, elderly