Abstract
Introduction Due to increased life expectancy among the population, studying the vocal parameters
of the elderly is key to promoting vocal health in old age.
Objective This study aims to analyze the profile of the extension of speech of elderly female
choristers, according to age group.
Method The study counted on the participation of 25 elderly female choristers from the Choir
of Messianic Church of São Paulo, with ages varying between 63 and 82 years, and an
average of 71 years (standard deviation of 5.22). The elders were divided into two
groups: G1 aged 63 to 71 years and G2 aged 72 to 82. We asked that each participant
count from 20 to 30 in weak, medium, strong, and very strong intensities. Their speech
was registered by the software Vocalgrama that allows the evaluation of the profile
of speech range. We then submitted the parameters of frequency and intensity to descriptive
analysis, both in minimum and maximum levels, and range of spoken voice.
Results The average of minimum and maximum frequencies were respectively 134.82–349.96 Hz
for G1 and 137.28–348.59 Hz for G2; the average for minimum and maximum intensities
were respectively 40.28–95.50 dB for G1 and 40.63–94.35 dB for G2; the vocal range
used in speech was 215.14 Hz for G1 and 211.30 Hz for G2.
Conclusion The minimum and maximum frequencies, maximum intensity, and vocal range presented
differences in favor of the younger elder group.
Keywords
voice - elderly - quality of life
