Correlation Between Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Voice Therapy Outcomes in the Aging Treatment- Seeking Population

Correlation Between Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Voice Therapy Outcomes in the Aging Treatment- Seeking Population

This study will investigate if the performance on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is associated or predictive of the outcomes in voice, swallowing or upper airway therapy in the older laryngology treatment seeking patients. The relationship between the scores of MoCA and parameters in therapy will be analyzed. The outcomes of this study could potentially impact how investigators determine candidacy for therapy and develop patient treatment plans to meet their needs. This is a collaborative study with Emory Voice Center and the NYU Voice Center.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 60 years or older with voice/swallowing/upper airway complaints
• Multidisciplinary assessment by fellowship-trained laryngologist and voice/swallow/upper airway specialized speech-language pathologist
• Voice, Swallowing and/or Upper airway disorder diagnosis
• Candidate for voice, swallowing or upper airway therapy following interdisciplinary assessment.
• State willingness to participate in the study protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

• Under the age of 60 years old
• Previously diagnosed dementia
• Central neurological disorder
• Active psychotic disorder
• Recurrent or active major depressive disorder (PHQ-9 of 10 or greater)
• Patient not able to attempt the MoCA because of a severe hearing or visual impairment
• Patients who do not speak or understand English
• Tested with MoCA in the last month