Did you know that just like the rest of our body, our voice undergoes changes with aging? In this post, let's delve into the reasons behind the aging of our voice and explore various methods to prevent it.
Aging of Vocal Cords and Lung Function
The primary reason for changes in our voice is the aging of vocal cords. Our voice originates from the vocal folds inside the larynx, and as these vocal folds age, the elastic fibers in the middle of the vocal folds lose elasticity during the contraction and relaxation process. This leads to a decrease in the quality of our voice. Additionally, the aging of lung function can impact smooth breathing, affecting the vibration of the vocal folds.
Signs of Vocal Aging
If vocal aging has already begun, you may experience symptoms such as
- Breathiness in the voice
- Frequent throat clearing
- Coughing while drinking water
- Difficulty producing loud sounds
- Weak and shaky voice
- Difficulty singing
- Voice easily getting hoarse or husky
- Holding breath while speaking
- Pronunciation inaccuracies and unclear speech
- Frequent dryness and irritation in the throat
Methods for Preventing Vocal Aging
- Dietary adjustments: Avoid foods that irritate the vocal cords and stay hydrated to lubricate the vocal folds.
- Vocal cord exercises: Regular exercises that stimulate the vocal cords can help strengthen the muscles. Humming tunes or reciting tongue twisters can be beneficial.
- Tongue trembling exercises: Performing exercises where the tongue is slightly bent upwards towards the palate while producing the sound 'rrrr' helps enhance the elasticity of the vocal folds.
- Aerobic exercise: Engaging in about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, like walking, can assist in maintaining vocal strength.
- Laughter therapy: Laughing heartily increases heart rate, facilitating the quick transition of stale air in the lungs and body corners to fresh oxygen. This can be helpful in preventing vocal aging.
Aging is an inevitable natural process, but understanding methods to prevent vocal aging can help maintain a healthier voice. With consistent care and exercises, you can enjoy a resilient voice for singing and engaging in conversations.
