University of Toronto and Baycrest Hospital researchers found that speech hesitations like “um” and “uh” correlate with executive function abilities across ages 18 to 90. The study analyzed speech patterns from 241 adults who described illustrations for 60 seconds each. Software extracted over 700 features from recordings, measuring speech rate, pause duration, and filler frequency. Adults producing more pauses and fillers during picture descriptions scored worse on cognitive control tests measuring working memory, inhibition, and mental flexibility. Speech timing showed stronger associations with cognitive abilities than standard screening tools like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Researchers suggest natural speech analysis could provide an accessible way to track cognitive changes over time without practice effects that complicate traditional testing methods. (Story URL)

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