Dizziness in the elderly and age-related degeneration of the vestibular system

The peripheral and central vestibular systems exhibit an age-related struct ural deterioration which may be responsible for vestibular reflex deficits and dizziness in the elderly. However, it seems likely that the central ner vous system is capable of compensating for a certain degree of decline in f unction, since not all elderly people are impaired to the extent that the c linical signs of vestibular dysfunction are apparent. Dizziness and other v estibular disorders may develop only when the degree of deterioration of th e vestibular system exceeds the ability of the nervous system to compensate . If dizziness does eventuate, it can have profound psychological consequen ces, particularly in terms of loss of confidence in independent activity, a nd may lead to the development of anxiety disorders. Vestibular rehabilitat ion programs may help to minimise the effects of age-related deterioration of the vestibular system and its psychological impact.