Phonatory function of the elderly determined by intensity-loading test: a comparison with the young.

Objective: The goal was to test the hypothesis that the elderly have diminished laryngeal regulation capability, so we investigated phonatory function in the elderly and young using a sound pressure-loading test.

Study Design And Setting: In 36 healthy men (17 in their 20s, 19 in their 70s) and 45 healthy women (22 in their 20s, 23 in their 70s), fundamental frequency, sound pressure level, mean flow rate (MFR), and expiratory lung pressure (EP) were determined from phonatory function testing. Subjects phonated at a comfortable level and at high intensity, without changing vocal pitch.

Results: MFR, EP, and airway resistance increased with high-intensity phonation in the young; however, only MFR and EP increased in the elderly.

Conclusions: The findings supported our hypothesis: with high-intensity phonation, the elderly undergo unchanged laryngeal regulation but a greater degree of expiratory regulation.

Significance: The elderly are likely to become tired due to the effort required for phonation.