Vocal tract discomfort in caregivers for the elderly during an interval of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Autor: Gantner, Sophia, Deitmerg, Ursula, Schuster, Maria
Předmět:
Zdroj: Logopedics Phoniatrics Vocology; Oct2022, Vol. 47 Issue 3, p194-201, 8p
Abstrakt: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, professional caregivers caring for the elderly may experience more vocal tract problems in addition to regular high vocal demands while wearing face masks/coverings. Vocal tract discomfort (VTD) was assessed in 64 caregivers in one home for the elderly (64% participation rate) in June 2020 using the German version of the VTD scale. More than one-half of the participating caregivers experienced VTD, described mostly as dryness, irritability, and tightness. Approximately, 80% reported that sensations were not perceived before enhanced infection prevention standards were implemented. Among caregivers caring for the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic, special care should be focused on the voice and vocal tract well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index