Written by: Jennifer Gorman (*Amsive Digital) | Reviewed by: Shelley Wyant | *MHP partners with Amsive Digital on news content
Causes of Dizziness and Vertigo in Older Adults
Dizziness is the feeling of being lightheaded, woozy, or unsteady. Some people with dizziness feel like the world is spinning (vertigo). Dizziness is very common among older adults and may be a symptom of an underlying health condition.
Keep reading for details about what causes dizziness in elderly people and how to get relief from dizzy spells.
Understanding Dizziness in Older Adults
Research shows that as many as 30% of people 65 and older experience dizziness. What causes dizzy spells in elderly people?
Common Causes of Dizziness in Older Adults
Older adults may experience dizziness for many reasons. Some common causes of dizziness in elderly people include:
- Problems with the inner ear
- Poor blood circulation
- Medication side effects
- Anxiety disorders
- Neurological conditions, like Parkinson’s
- Low blood sugar
- Dehydration
The Link Between Age & Dizziness
Normal age-related changes can make older adults more prone to dizziness. With age, the body does not regulate blood pressure as well, leading to sudden drops in blood pressure — and dizzy spells — when you stand up. The structures in the inner ear that control balance can also stop working as well with age.
Signs of Serious Dizzy Spells
Older adults experiencing dizzy spells may notice a variety of physical and emotional symptoms.
Physical Symptoms
Dizziness can involve the feeling that you’re unsteady, lightheaded, or about to faint. With vertigo, a type of dizziness, you may feel like you or the room is spinning. Other physical symptoms of dizziness can include:
- Ringing in your ears
- Loss of balance
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Emotional Symptoms
The emotional symptoms associated with dizziness in older adults can vary, but may include:
- Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
- Depression or hopelessness
- Fear of falling
- Withdrawing from social situations
When Should You Worry About Dizziness?
Dizziness can sometimes be a sign of serious health conditions. Seek immediate medical attention if you have a severe dizzy spell along with any other concerning symptoms, such as:
- Chest pain
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Facial numbness
- Difficulty breathing
Diagnosis of Dizziness in Older Adults
Dizziness is a symptom of many different conditions, so doctors may need to perform various tests to narrow down the cause.
Medical History & Physical Examinations
To diagnose dizziness, doctors start by asking questions about what the dizziness feels like. They may ask about your medical history or review your current medications. Then, they may use a physical exam to determine if a specific position or change in position brings on a dizzy spell.
Laboratory Tests & Imaging
Based on the results of the physical exam, doctors may order additional tests to identify the cause of the dizziness. For example, they may order blood tests to check your blood sugar, electrolytes, or thyroid function. In some cases, doctors recommend an MRI or CT scan.
Balance Tests
Balance problems can cause dizziness. Doctors may recommend various balance tests to look for issues with balance. For example, posturography measures how well you can remain balanced while standing. Electronystagmography measures involuntary eye movements to identify balance disorders.
Possible Complications from Constant Dizziness
Chronic dizziness can have serious negative effects on both your physical and mental health.
Fall Risk
Older adults who experience dizziness have a significantly higher risk of falling. Falls can cause serious injuries, such as hip fractures or head injuries, and are the leading cause of hospital admissions for older adults.
Mental Health Concerns
Dizziness and mental health concerns are closely related. Research shows that chronic dizziness can lead to both depression and anxiety. The reverse is also true: Mental health conditions can contribute to dizziness.
Impact on Quality of Life
Older adults who experience dizziness report having a lower quality of life than people without dizziness. That’s because dizziness can make it harder to live an independent life and participate in day-to-day activities, like socializing with friends and family.
Managing and Treating Dizziness
Usually, dizziness either gets better on its own or is caused by an easily treated condition. Here’s a look at how to manage dizziness.
Steps for Immediate Relief
When you feel dizzy, try sitting down or lying down. Lying down in a darkened room can be helpful for relieving vertigo in older adults. Consider avoiding tasks like reading or watching television until you’re feeling better.
When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any unexplained dizziness or vertigo. Dizziness can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment. Seek immediate medical attention for dizzy spells accompanied by chest pain, facial numbness, or other concerning symptoms.
Medical Treatments for Chronic Dizziness
Doctors may prescribe various medications to help older adults manage dizzy spells. For example, they may recommend medications for nausea and vomiting. Other commonly used medications include sedatives and antihistamines. Talk to your doctor to learn about medications for dizziness.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies
Various lifestyle changes can help manage dizziness or vertigo in the elderly. Try to avoid moving suddenly from a sitting to a standing position. If you feel unsteady on your feet, consider using a cane for added support.
Prevention of Dizziness in Older Adults
There are many strategies that can help prevent episodes of dizziness or vertigo in the elderly, including home remedies.
Importance of Regular Checkups
Regular checkups are an opportunity to get screened for underlying health conditions that could contribute to dizziness, like diabetes or hearing and balance problems. They’re also an opportunity to talk to your doctor about your risk factors for developing dizziness.
Tips for Preventing Dizziness
Living a healthy lifestyle may help prevent dizzy spells. Try to stay hydrated and eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Avoid using substances that can make dizziness symptoms worse, like caffeine and alcohol.
Exercises to Improve Balance
Regular physical activity, including activities to improve balance, is essential for older adults. Some examples of balance activities include standing on one foot, walking backwards, or getting out of a chair without using your hands.
Practical Tips for Family & Caregivers
Family members and caregivers also have a role to play in preventing dizziness in older adults. They can encourage healthy lifestyle habits, such as balanced nutrition and regular exercise, and promote regular checkups with health care providers.
Take Steps to Manage Dizziness
Dizziness is a common problem among older adults. There’s more than one cause of dizziness in elderly people, so talk to your doctor if you have new or unexplained dizziness, or if you want more information about what causes vertigo in elderly people.
Medicare makes it easy for older adults to get routine screenings that may identify dizziness, including hearing and balance exams. To find a Medicare Advantage plan in your area, view our 2025 plans.
McLaren Health Plan provides quality health insurance solutions for every stage of life, specifically tailored for Michigan residents. From individual coverage to family plans and Medicare, find out which plan is right for you.
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