Citation

Eibling D. Clin. Geriatr. Med. 2018; 34(2): 175-181.

Affiliation

Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA 15240, USA. Electronic address: eiblingde@upmc.edu.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.cger.2018.01.002

PMID

29661330

Abstract

Balance disorders are common in the elderly and can lead to falls, with resultant severe morbidity and even mortality. Progressive loss of vestibular function begins in middle age and is affected by multiple disease processes. Polypharmacy impacts many disease processes in the elderly, with balance function being one of the most susceptible. Evaluation of the older patient with a balance disorder is critical for the well-being of these patients, as it may drive intervention. This article reviews balance disorders often encountered in older patients and makes recommendations regarding education of nonotolaryngologists.

Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

Balance disorders; Dizziness; Falls; Frailty; Polypharmacy; Presbystasis; Vestibular disorders