Aerodynamic changes as a result of vocal function exercises in elderly men.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Acoustic Science

Background:

• Physiologic voice therapy, such as Vocal Function Exercises (VFEs), can enhance vocal quality in older adults.
• However, the specific effects of VFEs on vocal aerodynamics are not extensively documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the changes in vocal aerodynamics resulting from the Vocal Function Exercises (VFEs) program.
• To correlate these aerodynamic changes with improvements in maximum phonation times (MPT).

Main Methods:

• 19 participants (aged 60-78) completed 12 weeks of twice-daily VFEs.
• Vocal aerodynamic measures (glottal airflow, subglottic pressure) were assessed at comfortable, high, and low pitches pre- and post-therapy.
• Maximum phonation times (MPT) were recorded weekly.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated consistent improvement in VFE MPT throughout the 12-week program.
• Significant pre- to post-therapy differences were observed in aerodynamic measures related to glottic closure.
• Reduced glottal airflow and increased subglottic pressure were noted.

Conclusions:

• Vocal Function Exercises (VFEs) effectively improved vocal aerodynamics in elderly individuals.
• The observed improvements in glottal airflow and subglottic pressure correlated with enhanced maximum phonation times (MPT).
• These findings suggest VFEs positively impact the physiological mechanisms of voice production in older adults.