Age Related Balance Issues Can Be Improved

By Pam Stone , BSW, Certified Case Manager (CCM) | May 29, 2023 |

About 35% of adults over 40 experience some balance or dizziness issues. Logically, the percentage will increase as we age and the consequences of falling can be very serious- such as a broken hip or other bone or head injuries. As with most health matters, prevention is very important. If you are having changes in your confidence when walking or constant or fleeting feelings of dizziness, it is probably time to discuss this with your primary physician.

A balance disorder is a disturbance that causes an individual to feel unsteady. Balance is the result of several body systems working together: the visual system (eyes), vestibular system (ears), and proprioception (the body’s sense of where it is in space). Degeneration or loss of function in any of these systems can lead to issues with balance.

Many things can cause or intensify balance issues- including certain drugs; blood pressure and diabetes issues, Meniere’s Disease, or other medical disorders. Your physician may treat your condition or refer you to an appropriate specialist- cardiologist, neurologist, ENT, audiologist, PT, or OT.

If it is determined that you have issues with your ears (vestibular system), you may benefit from Vestibular Rehabilitation (VR). This is a specialized therapy to hopefully alleviate issues due to vestibular disorders. Local Physical or Occupational agencies seem to offer VR. For further information contact the Vestibular Disorders Association at https://vestibular.org

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