High-intensity Group Vocal Exercise to Improve Laryngeal Function in Patients With Parkinson Disease

Deterioration of speech and swallowing is a hallmark of Parkinson Disease (PD). There is emerging evidence that choral singing benefits people with PD across a range of modalities. Despite the increasing popularity of "Parkinson's choirs", rigorous study of these benefits is lacking. There is a large body of evidence that intense vocal training improves speech and communication for people with PD. However, the intense training places high demands on clinical and patient resources and, due to its individualized approach, lacks the potential psycho-social benefits of a group intervention.

It is hypothesized singing training program will increase vocal loudness, range of articulation, and prosodic variation during speech. Additionally, given existing evidence for neuroplastic transference of voice-related interventions to swallowing function, laryngeal components of swallowing function will also improve post-intervention. Finally, investigators expect to see improvements in patient-reported QOL measures corresponding with improved speech and laryngeal function and/or as the result of group interaction.

All participants will complete a standardized battery of assessment pre- and post- treatment including acoustic and aerodynamic assessment of voice, dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of speech and swallowing, and videofluoroscopic evaluation of swallowing. The outcome of this work will be a rigorous understanding of how choral singing therapy can positively impact the voice, swallowing function, and quality of life for patients with PD.