Factors Associated With Being Perceived as Vocally Young in Older Adults

To identify physiological, psychological, and lifestyle factors associated with being perceived as vocally young among community-dwelling older adults.

Cross-sectional observational study.

Participants were 1066 older adults (median age: 77.5 years) participating in the Itabashi Longitudinal Study on Aging in February-March, 2022. The outcome was self-reported frequency of being told one has a youthful voice, dichotomized into "yes" (often/sometimes) or "no" (rarely). Explanatory variables included sociodemographic characteristics, body water percentage, smoking status (current, former, never), alcohol consumption (current, former, never), respiratory disease history, grip strength, mental health (WHO-5), cognitive function, social interaction frequency, sleep duration, physical activity, oral health, and nutrient intake. Age- and gender-adjusted logistic regression models were examined associations with the outcome, with false discovery rate correction. Significant variables were entered into a multivariable model to assess their independent associations with the outcome.

Among participants, 55.3% reported often or sometimes being told they have a youthful voice. In age- and gender-adjusted analyses, greater social interaction frequency (OR = 2.60, 95% CI: 2.01-3.37, P < 0.001) and higher WHO-5 score (OR = 1.08 per point, 95% CI: 1.06-1.11, P < 0.001) were significantly associated. In multivariable analysis, both social interaction frequency (OR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.74-2.94, P < 0.001) and WHO-5 score (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03-1.08, P < 0.001) remained significant.

Frequent social interactions and better mental well-being are independently associated with being perceived as vocally young. These findings suggest that psychosocial factors contribute meaningfully to perceived vocal youthfulness, supporting the development of multidimensional programs for older adults that promote mental well-being and social engagement.