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Balance Disorders in Older Adults
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA 15240, USA.
Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|April 18, 2018
Summary
Balance disorders are common in older adults, increasing fall risks and mortality. This review covers common balance issues in the elderly and suggests educational improvements for healthcare providers.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Vestibular Science
- Neurology
Background:
- Balance disorders are prevalent in the elderly, often leading to falls, significant morbidity, and mortality.
- Progressive vestibular function loss starts in middle age and is influenced by various diseases.
- Polypharmacy is a significant factor affecting elderly health, particularly impacting balance function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common balance disorders in older patients.
- To provide recommendations for the education of nonotolaryngologists regarding geriatric balance issues.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of balance disorders in the elderly.
- Analysis of the impact of aging and disease on vestibular function.
- Discussion of polypharmacy's role in balance impairment.
Main Results:
- Balance disorders are a critical concern in the elderly, necessitating thorough evaluation.
- Vestibular decline is a natural aging process exacerbated by disease and medications.
- Intervention driven by proper evaluation can improve patient well-being.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive evaluation of elderly patients with balance disorders is essential.
- Education for nonotolaryngologists should address the specific challenges of geriatric balance issues.
- Understanding the multifactorial causes of balance disorders can guide effective management strategies.
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