Aging and degenerative disorders

Aging results in degenerative changes in the body and in the brain and often it is difficult to attribute symptoms of dizziness to only one thing, when in reality, it is multifactorial. By the age of 70, there is a significant decline in the vestibular neurons in the brain, along with decreased efficiency of brain processing. Those who have had a history of dizziness and vertigo in their younger years are at increased  risk of balance issues and falling as they age, since these affected regions of the brain will often be the first to degenerate and become dysfunctional.

Dizziness is one of the most common complaints in the GP clinic, for people over the age of 75 years. Not only does dizziness result in a lower self-rated quality of life, it also contributes to disability and a risk of falling.  

Many elderly people actually believe it is “normal” to be dizzy as they age yet those who have symptoms of dizziness have been reported to have a 12 fold increase in the odds of falling.  Falls are the most common mechanism of injury to older adults and, of those who fall, approximately 10% suffer a serious injury such as fracture, dislocation or head injury.   

The examination of the older, dizzy person includes assessments of tremor, sensation in the feet, joint impairments, physical activity levels and standard vestibular testing protocols.  Although we cannot “turn back time” it is very possible that the dizziness symptoms can be improved, or if not, the likeliness of falling can be decreased.  Balance and the ability to confidently walk is crucial to independence and quality of life and it is essential to identify risk factors early because early intervention is always the best policy!