Prospective Associations between Self-perceived Voice Disorders and Psychological, Social, and Physical Well-being among Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

backgroundSelf-perceived voice disorders (PVD) are common in later life and may affect psychological, social, and physical well-being. However, longitudinal evidence in community settings remains limited. This study sought to examine whether PVD predicted changes in well-being among community-dwelling older adults.

methodsData were obtained from a community cohort in Kasama City, Japan. Older adults (n=273; aged 76.5 years; 57.1% female) were classified based on baseline Voice Handicap Index-10 scores (0, no; 1-4, mild; and ≥5, PVD). Outcomes were assessed annually through 2025 using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS), Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly, and physical performance measures (handgrip strength, single-leg balance with eyes open, sit-and-reach, and 5-m habitual walk). Linear mixed models analyzed the fixed effects of group, time, and their interaction while adjusting for selected covariates.

resultsSignificant group effects were observed for the GDS, total LSNS scores, and the LSNS family scale, indicating that participants with PVD had weakened psychological and social well-being and smaller family networks. Additionally, a notable group effect was observed in sit-and-reach, with PVD participants showing less flexibility than those without it in the physical performance measures.

conclusionAmong community-dwelling older adults, PVD was prospectively associated with increased depressive symptoms, diminished social networks, particularly smaller family networks, and reduced physical flexibility. These findings suggest that PVD preceding medical diagnosis may signal broader declines in psychological, social, and physical well-being, highlighting the importance of early identification and support.