The Relation among Voice Complaints, Social Isolation, and Loneliness.


Social isolation and loneliness are two distinct but related concepts. Social isolation involves limited social engagement; and loneliness is the brain’s interpretation of social isolation, the consequences of which may be drastic. Loneliness is associated with increased risks in dementia, coronary artery disease or stroke, and poorer health outcomes. When communication is difficult due to a voice disorder, people may become more socially isolated. However, little is known about the relationship among social isolation, loneliness, and voice disorders. Understanding the impact of loneliness and social isolation in those with voice disorders may expand the greater impact of voice disorder to overall health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to discover if there was a relationship between individuals with voice complaints and their subjective experiences of loneliness. Twelve self-report measures assessing social isolation, loneliness, and vocal function were compiled in a survey and disseminated to both vocal healthy and voice impaired individuals. Data collection is on-going and is expected to be completed in February 2026 with a targeted 200 participants. Thus far, data show emerging relations among these constructs using correlations between reported vocal complaints, metrics of social isolation, and loneliness.

Jameson
Miriam
Miller
van Mersbergen