The effect of mild-stage Alzheimer’s disease on the acoustic parameters of voice
摘要
Our study aimed to reveal the differences by comparing the objective and subjective voice features of individuals diagnosed with mild-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD) with those with normal cognitive abilities.
MethodsThe study comprised 51 participants, who were divided into two groups: those with AD (study group, n = 28) and those with normal cognitive abilities (control group, n = 23). In the objective voice assessments of the participants, s/z ratio, maximum phonation time (MPT), F0, F1, F2, F3, jitter, shimmer, and NHR values were examined. The Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10) and Voice-Related Quality of Life Scale (V-RQOL) were employed for the subjective assessments.
ResultsIn both males and females, the jitter and shimmer values in the study group were considerably higher than those in the control group (p < 0.000). The MPT of male participants in the study group was significantly lower than that of male participants in the control group (p < 0.036). Regarding VHI-10 and V-RQOL, the groups showed no statistically significant variation (p > 0.005).
ConclusionDifferences in shimmer, jitter, and MPT values based on gender among individuals with mild-stage AD indicate an impact on voice quality. It is suggested that clinicians should consider voice parameters during the assessment and intervention processes for mild-stage AD.