Age-related correlations and predictive relationships among self-reported voice assessment tools in Korean adults

This study examined relationships among the Korean aging voice index (KAVI), the self-awareness index of voice problems (SAIVP), and the Korean voice handicap index (KVHI), and tested whether KAVI and SAIVP predict KVHI. A total of 183 adults aged 30–88 years participated. Descriptive statistics showed substantial individual variability in subjective voice perception and discomfort. Correlations were significant for KAVI–KVHI (r=.675, p<.001), SAIVP–KVHI (r=.832, p<.001), and KAVI–SAIVP (r=.577, p<.001). Age showed weak but significant correlations with all three measures, whereas sex was not significantly associated with any variable. In tertile-based age group comparisons, the SAIVP–KVHI correlation increased from the young group (30–48 years) to the middle-aged group (49–68 years) and the older group (69–88 years). Multiple regression analyses indicated that both KAVI and SAIVP significantly predicted KVHI (p<.001), with SAIVP showing a stronger contribution. These findings indicate that the three measures are significantly associated with subjective voice perception and perceived discomfort across adult aging. SAIVP may serve as a brief screening tool; KAVI may support early detection of age-related voice changes, and KVHI may quantify voice handicap. The present study underscores the importance of early assessment and intervention for voice-related concerns in adults, including older adults.