Can you fight age-related voice changes?

Age-related changes to the vocal cords can make the voice sound thin, reedy, raspy, breathy, lower, or higher. Certain strategies can help protect the voice. Examples include avoiding overuse, such as trying to speak over loud noise all day; staying hydrated, which keeps the vocal cords working well; avoiding spicy foods and irritants in the air such as smoke, which can inflame the vocal cords; and avoiding frequent throat clearing.