Preventing Dyspnea During Speech in Older Speakers

Due to various comorbidities affecting the respiratory system, older speakers are at risk of experiencing breathing discomfort (dyspnea) during high-demand vocal activities such as singing, loud speaking, and speaking while exercising. Dyspnea during speech can promote avoidance of certain situations involving voice production, thus leading to vocal deconditioning and decreased quality of life. The goal of this pilot study is to test the feasibility and acceptability of a 4-week remote group intervention targeting phonatory dyspnea, and to gather preliminary efficacy data. Participants will receive an intervention including a 2-week socialization phase (control condition) and a 4-week speech breathing intervention phase (experimental condition). Both phases will be delivered remotely and in a group setting (10 participants per group).