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Prevalence and Risk Factors of Frailty in Patients With Vestibular Hypofunction
Tomohiko Kamo1,2, Hirofumi Ogihara2,3, Ryozo Tanaka2,4
1Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Gunma Paz University, Gunma, Japan.
Ear and Hearing
|July 2, 2025
Summary
Frailty is more common in individuals with vestibular hypofunction than in the general population. Early assessment of frailty in these patients is vital for timely interventions and improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Vestibular hypofunction, a condition causing dizziness, affects individuals over 40.
- Frailty is a growing concern in aging populations, impacting health outcomes.
- The relationship between vestibular hypofunction and frailty requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of frailty in patients with chronic vestibular hypofunction.
- To identify factors associated with frailty in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving 185 patients (≥40 years) with chronic vestibular hypofunction.
- Frailty assessed using the revised Japanese Cardiovascular Health Study criteria.
- Comparison group of 203 community-dwelling adults (≥40 years) without vestibular hypofunction.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of frailty was 17.3% in vestibular hypofunction patients vs. 7.0% in controls.
- Prevalence of prefrailty was 55.7% in patients vs. 54.0% in controls.
- Low gait speed was the most common frailty component (34.6%) in patients; age, female sex, depression, and dizziness severity were associated with frailty.
Conclusions:
- Patients with vestibular hypofunction exhibit a higher prevalence of frailty compared to community-dwelling adults.
- Screening for frailty in vestibular hypofunction patients is essential for risk stratification.
- Early interventions, including exercise and vestibular rehabilitation, are recommended for frail patients.
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