Balance Problems in Seniors

One problem that causes many seniors to seek the advice of their doctor is frequent episodes of lightheadedness and dizziness or feeling like the room is spinning around them when they attempt to stand up.  The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains that these symptoms can be a sign of balance problems, many of which are caused by inner ear problems.  They note that, “In 2008, an estimated 14.8 percent of American adults (33.4 million) had a balance or dizziness problem during the past year.” 

Good balance is important to the well-being of older adults as it helps them to move about without the danger of tripping and to safely participate in their daily activities.  There are several disorders that can cause balance problems and the treatments vary according to the disorder.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo or BPPV is one of these disorders.  In BPPV, individuals experience vertigo whenever they shift the position of their head, such as rolling over from left to right when lying down or moving their head to look up or to look down.  NIH reports that BPPB occurs most commonly in adults over 60 and is caused when “small calcium particles in the inner ear become displaced and disrupt the inner ear balance sensors, causing dizziness.”

Labyrinthitis is another disorder that creates balance problems.  It is caused by an infection or inflammation of the inner ear.  Symptoms include dizziness, hearing loss (from mild to total loss of hearing) and vertigo.  It is often related to upper respiratory infections including the flu. 

Ménière’s disease, Vestibular neuronitis, and Perilymph fistula are other examples of disorders that cause balance problems. The NIH advises that you see your doctor if you are experiencing vertigo, dizziness or other balance problems. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  If you are experiencing health problems, please consult with your health care provider.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  We invite you to schedule a visit to see our model suites and learn more about assisted living in theScottsdale/Fountain Hills area.  

Source:nihseniorhealth.gov/balanceproblems/aboutbalanceproblems/01.html