Aging and Dizziness: Prevention and Treatment Strategies
As we get older, dizziness becomes more common. While some degree of dizziness can be a normal part of aging, it shouldn’t be ignored. Frequent dizziness can affect mobility, quality of life, and increase the risk of falls.
At FYZICAL Woodlands North in Conroe, TX, we understand the challenges that come with aging and dizziness. We offer dizziness treatment, vestibular therapy, and geriatric physical therapy to help older adults improve balance, regain stability, and feel confident in their everyday activities.
Why Does Dizziness Increase with Age?
Dizziness in older adults can be caused by several factors, with common causes including:
- Vestibular Changes: As we age, the vestibular system, which controls balance, may start to decline. Conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular hypofunction are more common in older adults and can cause spinning sensations or unsteadiness.
- Muscle Weakness and Decreased Mobility: Aging often leads to reduced muscle strength and flexibility, particularly in the legs and core. This can make it harder to maintain balance, leading to dizziness when standing or walking.
- Medications: Many older adults take medications that may have dizziness as a side effect. This can include blood pressure medications, sedatives, or antidepressants, all of which can interfere with balance.
- Dehydration and Blood Pressure Issues: Conditions like orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing) are more common in older adults and can cause dizziness or fainting.
Prevention and Treatment Strategies
These include:
1. Geriatric Physical Therapy
One of the most effective treatments for dizziness in older adults is geriatric physical therapy. A personalized therapy plan focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and balance. Exercises targeting leg strength, posture, and stability can help reduce dizziness and the risk of falls
2. Vestibular Therapy
When dizziness is caused by inner ear issues, vestibular therapy can be very helpful. This therapy uses specific exercises to help retrain the brain and body to work together, improving balance and reducing symptoms like vertigo. Techniques may include gaze stabilization exercises and positional maneuvers for conditions like BPPV.
3. Adequate Hydration
Dehydration is a common cause of dizziness, especially in hot weather. Be sure to drink enough fluids, particularly if you’re taking medications that may cause fluid loss
4. Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring
High or low blood pressure can contribute to dizziness. If you experience dizziness when standing, it may be due to orthostatic hypotension. Regular monitoring and adjustments to medication can help manage this problem.
5. Fall Prevention
Simple home modifications, like installing grab bars and using non-slip rugs, can reduce fall risk. Balance exercises with a physical therapist can also improve stability and prevent falls, a major concern for seniors dealing with dizziness.
Get the Help You Need
If you or a loved one is experiencing dizziness, don’t wait for it to worsen. Take control of your health today.
Contact FYZICAL Woodlands North to schedule an appointment for personalized dizziness treatment, vestibular therapy, and geriatric physical therapy tailored to your needs.