In our culture, we often associate voices with age in a certain way. Research by Michael Kinney at Stanford shows that we do not always hear older voices as valuable, even though they can radiate wisdom and experience. How we listen to ageing is influenced by social expectations and prejudices about age.
Kinney looks at musicians who are still singing at an advanced age, such as Johnny Cash and Luciano Pavarotti. He notes that some voices exude age and authority, while there is also pressure to sound youthful and perfect above all. These insights show that age in the music world is often misunderstood, and that this influences how older people are seen and valued.
Attention is also paid to older artists who sing about vulnerable themes, such as dementia. As a result, their voices do not lose beauty and meaning, but instead acquire a special power. This can help us to listen differently and develop an appreciation that is not solely focused on youth and perfection.
A better understanding of how we experience older voices contributes to a more positive view of ageing. It helps to see age not as a disadvantage, but as a source of value and connection. For anyone wishing to stay healthy and age positively, this change in listening attitude is very important.
Source: admin
