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Expert: Effects of Aging on Voice, Speech Often Ignored Source: Purdue University Released: Thu 29-Jan-2004, 11:30 ET Newswise — Baby boomers are coloring their hair and paying to have wrinkles erased, but when it comes to age creeping up on their voice, few care, says a Purdue University speech sciences expert. "It is surprising that people are not more concerned because not being able to communicate can inhibit an older person's lifestyle," says Jessica Huber, who is studying these changes, along with similar vocal changes associated with Parkinson's disease, to help develop better therapies. "Because of these changes, a person may be reluctant to talk, which means they may socialize less and become isolated." By the age of 60 to 70, some peoples' voices tend to become quieter and more breathy or hoarse. This can cause problems for friends of the same age because of hearing problems that tend to develop in the aging process. It also can cause problems for individuals who use their voice professionally, such as teachers or ministers, if they want to maintain a career into their later years. Huber also can talk about issues related to speech and swallowing disorders associated with Parkinson's disease, stroke or other adult-related speech disorders, which often affect the elderly. SOURCE: Newswise, US http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/502980/ * * * ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn