Upplevd rösthälsa i relation till omfattning och upplevelse av social delaktighet hos individer mellan 65 och 80 år

Sammanfattning

Purpose The aim of this study was to examine whether there was a difference in subjective vocal health in age groups 65-70, 71-75 and 76-80, and an association between subjective vocal health and the extent and experience of social participation among individuals aged 65 to 80 years. Method An online questionnaire regarding subjective vocal health and social participation was distributed to subjectively healthy participants who were currently not in voice therapy. 152 participants between the ages of 65 and 80 years were included in the study. Statistical analyses were made using Chi² calculations in SPSS. Results No significant difference was found between age groups 65-70, 71-75 and 76-80 regarding subjective vocal health as for voice symptoms and concern for one’s voice. 57% of all participants experienced some kind of voice symptom. No significant association was found between subjective vocal health and the extent of social participation among individuals aged 65 to 80 years. Conclusions Due to uneven distribution of participants regarding age groups and gender, the preliminary results of the study warrant further research to examine the relation between subjective vocal health and social participation.