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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
09:30
Behavioral Assessment of the Aging Mouse Vestibular System
Published on: July 11, 2014
Geriatric vestibulopathy assessment and management
Joseph M Furman1, Yael Raz, Susan L Whitney
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA. furmanjm@upmc.edu
Summary
Dizziness is a common complaint in older adults, affecting over 8% of those 70+. Effective management involves medication review, specific maneuvers, and vestibular rehabilitation to improve balance and reduce fall risk.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Dizziness is a prevalent and often debilitating symptom in the elderly population.
- It significantly impacts quality of life and increases fall risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the demographics of dizziness in older individuals.
- To outline the evaluation of older patients experiencing dizziness.
- To differentiate treatment strategies for dizziness in older versus younger patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on dizziness prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment in older adults.
- Analysis of age-related changes in vestibular function testing.
- Evaluation of treatment efficacy for common vestibular disorders.
Main Results:
- Dizziness is a leading complaint in individuals over 75, with prevalence increasing with age.
- Vestibular dysfunction is highly prevalent in older decades (e.g., 84.8% in those 80+).
- Combined particle repositioning and vestibular rehabilitation is superior to repositioning alone; Tai Chi aids fall prevention.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive assessment of older dizzy patients is crucial.
- Key management steps include medication review, Dix-Hallpike maneuver, orthostatic vital signs, fall risk discussion, and considering vestibular rehabilitation.
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