Pearls of Aging Voice Management (AMW)
2021 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO Experience
Voice plays a critical role in how one is perceived in society and immensely affects quality of life. Although it is estimated that 12-35% of older adults complain of hoarseness, this is likely an underestimation. As increasing numbers of older individuals continue to be part of the work force, vocal quality is critical both in the workplace and in social settings. Dysphonia in the elderly is associated with several undesirable characteristics such as a harsh quality, breathiness, loss of volume, and tremor. Hearing loss in the elderly compounds the vocal problems, leading to social isolation, depression, and a loss of productivity. Vocal problems in older individuals may be due to the same range of diagnoses noted in younger adults. Presbyphonia is a diagnosis of exclusion and should not be assumed because of an individual’s age. This course will focus on the diagnosis, pathophysiology and surgical as well as non-surgical management of presbyphonia. Differences between presbylarynx and other common pathologies in the elderly, such as Parkinson's disease, will be discussed. Case studies with video will be used to highlight important points. Available management options will be discussed in the context of the currently available data. Illustrative videos will be used to demonstrate the various management strategies, including the importance of in-office procedures. The course is intended to be highly interactive. Audience participation will be welcomed and solicited.
Credits
CME:1.0, MOC:1.0