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Inner-Ear Woes Linked to Many Elderly Tumbles

More than half of Americans over 60 have the disorder

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted May 27, 2009 7:45 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Researchers have shed light on the frequent, debilitating, and sometimes life-threatening falls among the elderly: many tumbles may be caused by inner-ear imbalances, Time reports. Some 35% of Americans over 40 have such vestibular dysfunction; the condition affects more than 50% of Americans 60 and older. An inner-ear imbalance multiplies the risk of falling by twelve times.

It’s not just a matter of bone weakness, poor sight, and gait trouble, previously considered the main factors. The study’s results show that regular screening for inner-ear issues in those over 50 could reduce falls and save lives. “Patients who are aware they're at a greater risk can take steps to minimize the chance of falling, such as physical therapy to improve balance or simply installing railings in places they tend to fall,” says the study’s head.

Many among the elderly have inner-ear imbalances, a study found.
Many among the elderly have inner-ear imbalances, a study found.   (Shutterstock)
Regular screenings for inner-ear imbalances could help save lives.
Regular screenings for inner-ear imbalances could help save lives.   (Shutterstock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 2 of 2 comments
dax
Jul 22, 2009 10:28 AM CDT
Significant information for those caring for seniors. Falls account for a high occurrence of disability leading to premature death among the elderly.
brawne
May 28, 2009 10:54 AM CDT
Menier's disease is usually genetic and has nothing to do with fitness. My grandmother was diagnosed when she broke her hip, my father when he was young and fit and they thought it was a stroke, and my sister, who got it in her teens, has six or seven bouts a year. She broke a foot once and her forearm once before she realized that she could get it in her sleep and jump out of bed with a head full of dizzy. She has had years of physical therapy to train her head and eyes to work slowly and in unison. She scuba dives and runs marathons, but a bout will still put her to bed for days. She said it's like not moving while your head feels like it's spinning backward and upside down for days. Luckily, she now gets almost an aura like sensation before it hits. Good for pulling the car over.

Abstract of the study
Archives of Internal Medicine

 
medical breakthrough • elderly • balance • seniors • inner ear • fall

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