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

• Published in: New Zealand journal of psychology (Christchurch. 1983) Vol. 28; no. 1; pp. 10 - 16
• Main Authors: Matheson, Anna J, Darlington, Cynthia L, Smith, Paul F
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New Zealand New Zealand Psychological Society 01.06.1999
• Subjects: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Aging - physiology; Causes of; Cerebrovascular Circulation - physiology; Cerebrovascular Disorders - physiopathology; Dizziness - etiology; Dizziness - physiopathology; Dizziness - psychology; Ear, Inner - physiology; Ear, Inner - physiopathology; Hair Cells, Vestibular - physiopathology; Humans; Middle Aged; Older people; Physiological aspects; Physiology; Posture - physiology; Psychology; Reflex, Vestibulo-Ocular - physiology; Space life sciences; Vertigo; Vestibular Nerve - physiopathology; Vestibular Nuclei - physiopathology; Vestibule, Labyrinth - anatomy & histology; Vestibule, Labyrinth - physiology; Vestibule, Labyrinth - physiopathology; New Zealand
• ISSN: 0112-109X; 1179-7924

Explains the structural deterioration of the peripheral and central vestibular systems associated with ageing. Suggests that the central nervous system is capable of compensating for a certain degree of decline in function, and that dizziness and other vestibular disorders may develop only when the degree of deterioration of the vestibular system exceeds the ability of the nervous system to compensate. Considers the psychological consequences of dizziness and the role of vestibular rehabilitation programmes in minimising its effects. Source: National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Matauranga o Aotearoa, licensed by the Department of Internal Affairs for re-use under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 New Zealand Licence.