How to reduce the effects of aging on your voice
As we age, so do our voices. A number of physiological changes affect the larynx (a more comprehensive discussion is contained in Vocal Technique):
Tips for older singers
The good news is that vocal aging can be delayed. Regular exercise, both aerobic and strength training, along with a well-balanced diet and weight control contribute to the continued ability to sing well into old age. Taken together, these behaviors help to prevent cardiovascular disease, which is critically important for singers given that reduced blood flow is thought to be a major cause of laryngeal dysfunction associated with aging.
The following are other specific actions that singers can take to prevent premature aging of their voices (Heman-Ackah, Sataloff, Hawkshaw, & Divi, 2008):
We recommend SOVT exercises to improve the clarity of older individuals' speaking and singing voices. Singing through straws just 5 minutes per day can do wonders for the voice.
Some of the additional topics covered in Vocal Technique
- Women’s ovaries secrete less estrogen, particularly after menopause. These changes in hormonal balance are associated with increases in the density of vocal fold tissues, which generally translates into a lowering of the singing range (Gilbert and Weismer, 1974).
- In men there is a decline in testosterone level that is associated with a slight increase in speaking pitch, raising the lowest singable pitch by a small amount but not appreciably increasing the highest singable pitch.
- Over time, portions of the laryngeal cartilages may calcify and even transform into bone (ossify). This can limit range and may affect high pitches the most.
- Laryngeal muscles atrophy. This may contribute to a breathy or hoarse sound and difficulty with pitch control.
- Abdominals and rib muscles atrophy (Awan, 2006), affecting breath support.
- Respiratory training may be particularly helpful. You can purchase a device that looks like snorkel breather without the long tube. Instead a short tube projects from the portion that goes in the mouth and is adjustable to control resistance to inhaling and exhaling. Studies show that these devices do indeed improve breathing capability. They may easily be obtained through online sellers.
Tips for older singers
The good news is that vocal aging can be delayed. Regular exercise, both aerobic and strength training, along with a well-balanced diet and weight control contribute to the continued ability to sing well into old age. Taken together, these behaviors help to prevent cardiovascular disease, which is critically important for singers given that reduced blood flow is thought to be a major cause of laryngeal dysfunction associated with aging.
The following are other specific actions that singers can take to prevent premature aging of their voices (Heman-Ackah, Sataloff, Hawkshaw, & Divi, 2008):
- Use good breath support. Exercises such as exhaling on an "s" can also help individuals who may be experiencing atrophy of breathing muscles.
- Avoid excessively pressed phonation that can damage the vocal folds over time.
- Onset exercises may help older singers who have excessively breathy voices.
- Always warm up prior to singing. Try cooling down after long sessions of singing.
- Use techniques to enhance resonance, thereby increasing the efficiency of singing (Chapter 4 of Vocal Technique).
- Use good vocal technique, not only in singing, but also in everyday speech.
- Stay well-hydrated and take preventive measures to avoid gastric reflux (Chapter 15 of Vocal Technique).
- Do not smoke.
We recommend SOVT exercises to improve the clarity of older individuals' speaking and singing voices. Singing through straws just 5 minutes per day can do wonders for the voice.
Some of the additional topics covered in Vocal Technique
- Characteristics of the aging voice
- Other physiological changes affecting the larynx