The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in maintaining posture, gait, and balance by sensing head movement and coordinating eye and postural responses. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older Western Australians, and impaired vestibular function significantly increases the risk. More than one in two individuals who experience a fall shows signs of vestibular dysfunction.
How does the vestibular system influence falls risk?
Vestibular dysfunction can increase an older adult’s risk of falls by influencing:
- gait speed
- standing balance
- postural stability
- physical activity.
What do the Australian Falls Guidelines say?
In June 2025, the Preventing Falls and Harm from Falls in Older People: Best Practice Guidelines for Community Care in Australia were updated with clear, evidence-based recommendations to support older adults with hearing and vestibular dysfunction.
As we know, many of those who fall show signs of vestibular dysfunction. We encourage people working with older adults to review the Falls Guidelines to explore how they can begin implementing the recommendations and good practice points related to hearing impairments and vestibular dysfunction.
Key recommendations for hearing impairments and vestibular dysfunction:
- assess older people complaining of dizziness and vertigo for vestibular dysfunction
- ensure access to an appropriately trained medical practitioner or physiotherapist to assess and manage vestibular-related balance problems.
- encourage older people to have annual hearing assessments and management with an audiologist
- encourage older people to wear their hearing aids when mobilising. Make sure the hearing aids are working
- if the older person has fallen, connect them to an audiologist for a detailed assessment and fall-specific hearing examination
- use hearing devices, such as a pocket talker or a hearing loop, to communicate with an older person with a hearing impairment, as required and in line with the older person’s preferences.
Preventing falls is a team effort
A multidisciplinary approach helps older adults stay independent and reduces the risk of falls. If you notice signs of vestibular dysfunction, refer to a professional such as:
- Physiotherapists
- Medical practitioners
- GP’s
- Occupational therapist’s
- Audiologist’s.
Search the eDirectory and connect older adults with other local health services and programs.