A Review on the Effect of Normal and Abnormal Ageing on Language

Abstract

This paper gives an overview of the effects of physical and psychological declines in normal and abnormal ageing on language production and processing. Firstly, it outlines two fundamental aspects of decline in the elderly which affect language: sensory and cognitive deficits. Ageing-related sensory deficits, such as presbycusis and presbyopia, often lead to lack of language understanding, especially in noisy environments, and an increased reading speed. Cognitive declines in ageing, such as decreased processing speed and deteriorated memory, decreases speaking speed and increases tip-of-tongue experiences. Moreover, changes in anatomical structures and physiology that are involved in language, such as changes in hormonal levels during menopause and altered vocal cord may change the lead to presbyphonia, or ageing voice. Genetics of language is also identified which may lead to language disorders in ageing. Apart from normal ageing, declines in language comprehension and cognition in Alzheimer’s patients are more severe than those of normal elderly people. Differences in language cognition and production between normal and abnormal ageing are compared. Lastly, factors that increase the chance of healthy ageing and reduced impact on language, such as healthy diet, exercise, and bilingualism, as explained and advice on maintaining healthy ageing is given.