Geriatric dizziness: evolving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for the emergency department

Abstract

Dizziness affects one in five people over the age of 65 years and is associated with substantial healthcare costs. Serious causes of dizziness are found in 20% of patients over 50 years. The approach to the patient with dizziness is challenging as physical exam and diagnostic tests have suboptimal sensitivities. The risk of vascular events is higher in the first 30 days than after, suggesting some missed diagnoses. Medications and vestibular rehabilitation may serve as treatment options for dizziness, but data on their efficacy in older patients is lacking.