Clinical Research Directory

THE EFFECT OF POSTURAL ALİGNMENT AND DEEP CERVICAL MUSCLE TRAINING ON VOICE FUNCTION IN OLDER ADULTS WITH PRESBYPHONIA

This study examined whether posture exercises and deep neck muscle training can improve voice quality in older adults with presbyphonia, an age-related voice disorder. Older adults with presbyphonia participated in a rehabilitation program that included posture correction and exercises to strengthen the deep neck muscles. The program aimed to improve head and neck alignment, posture control, and breathing support, which are important for healthy voice production. Voice evaluations were performed before and after treatment using voice recordings, breathing-related measurements, and questionnaires about voice-related difficulties. After the exercise program, participants showed improvements in voice quality and vocal stability. They were able to sustain their voice for a longer time and reported fewer voice-related problems in daily life. Improvements in posture and neck control were also associated with better vocal performance. These findings suggest that posture and deep neck muscle exercises may help improve voice function in older adults with presbyphonia. Such exercises may be a useful supportive treatment option for age-related voice problems. Further studies with larger groups are needed to confirm these results.

PhoRTE® Therapy Efficacy: In-Person Versus Telehealth

This study compares how well voice therapy works when delivered in-person versus through telehealth for older adults with age-related voice problems. Researchers are testing whether Phonation Resistance Training Exercises (PhoRTE®) can be just as effective when delivered remotely as when done face-to-face, which could make treatment more accessible and affordable for seniors. The two primary hypotheses are: 1. Does voice therapy (called PhoRTE®) work as well through video calls as it does face-to-face? 2. Can online therapy be a more accessible way for older adults to get help for their voice problems? Adults aged 55 or older with voice changes and an applicable diagnosis will be randomly assigned to receive either in-person or telehealth therapy, consisting of four 45-minute sessions. After treatment, researchers will measure improvements through: * Changes in voice function * Patient reports about their voice * Scientific measurements of voice quality * Patient satisfaction with treatment * Impact on quality of life The results will help determine if telehealth can be a good alternative to in-person voice therapy, especially important as telehealth coverage may be changing.

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.