Dizziness in Seniors is a Common Complaint

If you are a senior who is having episodes of dizziness, you are not alone as it is one of the most common complaints of older adults. Studies show up to 25% of Americans 72 years and older have reported dizziness; and a Swedish study found up to 50% of adults 85 years and older had dizzy spells. It is important to consult with your medical provider as there are various reasons for dizziness and it puts older people at a significantly higher risk of falling. In fact falls are the number one cause of hospital admissions and accidental deaths in the elderly. 

Dizziness in seniors is most commonly caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The condition is a result of calcium carbonate crystals in the otolithic organs of the inner ear getting dislodged from the gelatinous membrane that normally holds them in place. As these crystals become free-floating, they activate the hair cells in the semicircular canal, causing brief but disturbing episodes of vertigo. 

Experts say the second most common cause of dizziness in the elderly is a progressive degeneration of the spine, particularly the cervical spine or neck. Due to natural aging or the result of arthritis, a person’s neck may not move as easily and can send error messages to the brain regarding the position of the head. “When there is a sensory mismatch between what your neck sensors are saying and what your vision and vestibular system are saying, the consequence is dizziness symptoms, in particular, imbalance that can lead to falling.” 

Other causes of dizziness in the elderly are anxiety and mental disorders as well as medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium-channel blockers. A visit to your healthcare provider can help figure out what is causing you dizzy spells.  

At MorningStar of Billings, the wellbeing and comfort of residents is our highest priority and we offer unsurpassed independent living and assisted living. For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood’s memory care is staffed by a team of compassionate dementia care specialists. Please visit our website to learn more about our community and to ask about our pricing and availability.

Source: fyzical.com/blog/Causes-of-Dizziness-in-Older-Adults