Assessment of phonatory function by the airway interruption method: age-related changes

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Speech Science
• Aerodynamics

Background:

• Age-related physiological changes can affect phonatory function.
• Understanding these changes is crucial for voice health and clinical assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate age-related alterations in phonatory function using an aerodynamic test.
• To quantify changes in voice parameters across different adult age groups.

Main Methods:

• Conducted an airway interruption method aerodynamic phonatory function test on 286 adults (142 men, 144 women) aged 20-79.
• Measured fundamental frequency (F0), sound pressure level (SPL), mean flow rate (MFR), expiratory lung pressure (EP), and airway resistance.
• Utilized the Nagashima PS77E phonatory function analyzer.

Main Results:

• Fundamental frequency (F0) was lower in women aged 50 and older.
• Expiratory lung pressure (EP) was reduced in women aged 70 and older.
• Airway resistance decreased in both men and women aged 70 and older compared to younger groups.

Conclusions:

• Phonatory function shows age-related changes, particularly in women's fundamental frequency starting at age 50.
• Advanced age is associated with decreased expiratory lung pressure in women and reduced airway resistance in both genders.