Dizziness in the elderly is one of the most common complaints from the age of 65, described as a sensation of imbalance and changes in vision, and may or may not be associated with nausea and vomiting. When dizziness becomes more frequent, the elderly become afraid of falling, becoming more sedentary, more difficult to perform their daily activities, low self-esteem low and tendency to isolate.
Causes of dizziness in the elderly
The causes of dizziness in the elderly are diverse, and may involve many systems of the body. Among the most important, we can highlight:
- Vestibular system disorders : dizziness due to changes in body or head position, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis;
- Psychiatric disorders : panic, anxiety, depression;
- Cardiovascular diseases : arrhythmias, migraines, infarction;
- Neurological diseases : head trauma, parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebellar lesions;
- Problems in the endocrine system such as diabetes;
- Problems in muscles, joints, reflexes and posture ;
- Excessive medications such as diuretics and beta blockers;
- Vision changes : glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinopathy due to diabetes.
Other causes for dizziness in the elderly may also be referred to as low blood pressure, vertebral artery trauma, thyroid disease, AIDS, and labyrinthitis.
Treatment for dizziness in the elderly
Treatment for dizziness in the elderly is complicated because of the many diagnostic possibilities, so it should only be started after the correct causes have been defined. Among the conducts and general guidelines, it is important to highlight:
- Treat the underlying disease;
- Taking medications to control vestibular symptoms;
- Periodic consultations with a geriatrician to avoid excess medication;
- Be very careful when getting up from bed or chair;
- In cases of deficit in vision, see indication of lenses or glasses;
- Adapt the house to avoid falls.
It is important to highlight that the elderly with dizziness, after the diagnosis is defined, are benefited by an individualized exercise program, performed in a safe environment and accompanied by a physiotherapist. The goals of rehabilitation will be muscular strengthening, improved balance, recovery of lost functions and training of daily activities, thus giving more quality of life to the elderly with dizziness.
Watch the following video and see the exercises that can help reduce dizziness:
