As we age, we can expect many things from our body. We may see more gray hairs and wrinkles, we may lose some muscle tension and fine coordination and we may notice changes in our voice.

But we shouldn’t expect our voice to be a source of pain or isolation in our golden years.

It is normal for vocal cords to weaken with age. Depending on how much a person talks, a gap can develop between the cords. Where cords used to meet to vibrate, there will instead be a gap, leading to a soft, breathy voice.

Common changes also include a change in pitch for both men and women, reduced volume of voice and a tremor or “shaky” voice. Voices can also tire easily with aging, which can make talking on the phone or in a noisy restaurant difficult.

But many vocal problems are easily treatable either with voice therapy or surgery. Regular practice with a voice therapist or speech language pathologist can improve the steadiness, strength and endurance of the voice.

For patients with large gaps between the vocal cords, surgery can augment the vocal folds and eliminate the gap.

Particular groups of voice users — such as teachers, lawyers and singers — are at an even higher risk for vocal injuries as they age. Teachers specifically are more likely to have a vocal injury leading to reduced work or early retirement.

Voice problems can also result from infection, disease, acid reflux, trauma or a neurological condition. An abrupt change in voice may be a warning sign to see an otolaryngologist.

It’s important for older adults, especially professional voice users, to be educated about their voice. Many of my patients with mild to moderate vocal problems may have been able to avoid them with good preventive care. It can be devastating to lose the ability to share your voice, but it doesn’t have to happen with age.

Sid Khosla, MD, sees patients at the UC Health Physicians Offices in Clifton and West Chester Twp. For an appointment with UC Health’s otolaryngology team, call (513) 475-8400.