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The effect of aging on visual-vestibuloocular responses
R W Baloh1, K M Jacobson, T M Socotch
1Department of Neurology, Reed Neurological Research Center, UCLA Medical Center 90024-1769.
Experimental Brain Research
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Older adults over 75 show declines in vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) and optokinetic responses (OKN). These oculomotor changes may contribute to age-related dizziness and balance issues.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Age-related changes in sensory and neural pathways are well-documented.
- Oculomotor function is crucial for balance and spatial orientation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related alterations in oculomotor function.
- To compare visual-vestibular responses between older adults and young adults.
Main Methods:
- Measured vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), optokinetic (OKN), and visual-vestibular responses.
- Compared data from normal subjects over 75 years with young adult controls.
Main Results:
- Older subjects exhibited reduced VOR gain and a shorter VOR time constant.
- Older adults showed decreased OKN slow-phase velocity saturation.
- Impaired ability to enhance and suppress VOR with visual input was observed in older subjects.
Conclusions:
- Age-related declines in oculomotor function, including VOR and OKN, are significant.
- These functional deficits may underlie common complaints of dizziness and dysequilibrium in the elderly.
- Changes are likely due to age-related alterations in visual-vestibulooculomotor pathways.