Clinical Research Directory

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.