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 1 in 2 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
- cognitive health.
What do the Australian Falls Guidelines say?
The Australian Falls Guidelines provide clear, evidence-based recommendations to support older adults with hearing impairment. Good practice points include:
- 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.