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The Interaction Between Mild Cognitive Impairment with Vestibulo-ocular Reflex, Dynamic Visual Acuity and Postural
Mine Baydan1, Hatice Caliskan2, Burcu Balam-Yavuz2
1Ankara University, Department of Audiology, Ankara, Turkey.
Background:
Approximately 30% of the elderly population is falling each year, resulting in a major health problem. Cognitive decline is an independent risk factor for fall. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a cognitive decline that is higher than expected in the subjects' age but does not affect the activities of daily living OBJECTIVE: In the study, vestibulo-ocular reflexes, dynamic visual acuities and postural balances of subjects with mild cognitive impairment were evaluated and compared with the healthy control group.
Methods:
For this purpose, 10 subjects with mild cognitive impairment and 10 healthy subjects from the same age group were included in the study. After the hearing test was applied to the subjects, videonistagmography, dynamic visual acuity and computerized dynamic posturography measurements were performed.
Results:
Computerized Dynamic Posturography VEST parameter, SOT (Sensory Organization Test) 2, SOT 3, SOT 6 and Composite Balance Scores were significantly lower in the MCI group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of videonistagmographic measurements. Dynamic Visual Acuity Perception Time Test scores of the subjects with mild cognitive impairment were significantly longer compared to the control group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
As a result of the study, it was concluded that subjects with mild cognitive impairment were more prone to fall compared to control group and that these subjects should be included in fall prevention rehabilitation programs.
Insights
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) increases fall risk in older adults. Individuals with MCI showed poorer balance and slower visual acuity, highlighting the need for fall prevention programs.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Falls are a significant health issue in the elderly, affecting approximately 30% annually.
- Cognitive decline, particularly mild cognitive impairment (MCI), is an independent risk factor for falls.
- MCI is characterized by cognitive decline exceeding age-expected norms without impacting daily living activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare vestibulo-ocular reflexes, dynamic visual acuities, and postural balance in individuals with MCI versus healthy controls.
- To investigate the specific functional deficits associated with MCI that may contribute to fall risk.
Main Methods:
- The study included 10 individuals with MCI and 10 age-matched healthy controls.
- Participants underwent hearing tests, videonystagmography, dynamic visual acuity assessments, and computerized dynamic posturography.
- Key metrics included Sensory Organization Test (SOT) scores and Composite Balance Scores from posturography.
Main Results:
- Individuals with MCI demonstrated significantly lower scores on several Computerized Dynamic Posturography parameters (SOT 2, SOT 3, SOT 6, and Composite Balance).
- The MCI group exhibited significantly longer Dynamic Visual Acuity Perception Test times compared to controls.
- No significant differences were found between groups in videonystagmographic measurements.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with mild cognitive impairment are at a higher risk of falling compared to the healthy elderly population.
- These findings support the inclusion of individuals with MCI in targeted fall prevention and rehabilitation programs.
- Assessing balance and visual acuity is crucial for identifying fall risk in individuals with MCI.
