Characterizing the Impact of Presbyphonia on Social Interaction
The purpose of this study is to determine if presbyphonia, or voice disorder caused by age-related change in the larynx, is associated with change in social interaction. This proposal investigates the impact of voice impairment in older adults on social interaction, loneliness, social disconnectedness, and depression. A series of questionnaires, voice assessments, and interviews will be performed to improve our understanding of how voice disorders affect older adults and how treatment of voice impairment with voice therapy may improve quality of life.
• Diagnosis of presbyphonia with findings of presbylaryngis on videostroboscopy, with findings of bilateral true vocal fold atrophy and normal vocal fold motion bilaterally
• Able to complete all questionnaires and voice assessment tasks
• Normal to mild hearing loss in aided condition (with hearing aids)