Dizziness in the elderly is one of the most common complaints from the age of 65, described as a feeling of imbalance and changes in vision, which may or may not be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. When dizziness becomes more frequent, the elderly become afraid of falling, becoming more sedentary, with greater difficulty to carry out their day-to-day activities, showing low self-esteem and a tendency to isolate themselves.
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 diseases: dizziness due to changes in body or head position, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis; Psychiatric illnesses: panic, anxiety, depression; Cardiovascular diseases: arrhythmias, migraines, heart attack; Neurological diseases: head trauma, parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, lesions in the cerebellum; Problems in the endocrine system like diabetes; Problems in muscles, joints, reflexes and posture; Too many medications such as diuretics and beta-blockers; Vision changes: glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetes retinopathy.
Other causes for dizziness in the elderly can also be referred to as low blood pressure, spinal trauma, thyroid disease, AIDS and labyrinthitis.
Treatment for dizziness in the elderly
The treatment for dizziness in the elderly is complicated due to the numerous diagnostic possibilities, so it should only be started after the correct causes have been defined. Among the general guidelines and guidelines, it is important to highlight:
- Treating the underlying disease; Taking medications to control vestibular symptoms; Periodic consultations with a geriatrician to avoid excessive medication; Be very careful when getting up from bed or chair; In cases of vision impairment, see indication of lenses or glasses; Adaptation of the house to avoid falls.
It is important to emphasize that the elderly with dizziness, after the defined diagnosis, benefit from an individualized exercise program, performed in a safe environment and accompanied by a physical therapist. The goals of rehabilitation will be to strengthen muscles, improve balance, recover lost functions and train daily activities, thus giving more quality of life to the elderly with dizziness.
Watch the following video and see exercises that can help reduce dizziness:
