Impact of vestibular handicap self-perception in the quality of life of older adults without a diagnosed otoneurological pathology
Main Article Content
Keywords
vertigo, dizziness, quality of life, aged, healthy aging
Abstract
Introduction: Vertigo, dizziness and imbalance are among the most common complaints of the elderly, and can cause biopsychosocial impacts such as isolation, depression and decreased autonomy. Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of self-perception of vestibular disability and associated symptoms on the quality of life of self-reliant, community residents and without diagnosed vestibular disorders older adults. Material and Method: An observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study was carried out. Thirty healthy elderly subjects participated, residing in urban and rural areas of the Metropolitan Region. The dizziness handicap inventory was used to measure self-perception of vestibular disability and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire to mea- sure quality of life. Results: Adjusting for age, schooling, area of residence and cognitive performance, the dizziness handicap inventory score significantly predicted (p < 0.05) the physical and psychological dimension and the total score of the WHOQOL-BREF, explai- ning up to 35%, 9% and 16% of the scores, respectively. Conclusion: The self-perception of vestibular difficulty significantly affects the dimension of physical and psychological health of quality of life, independent of age, schooling, area of residence and cognitive performance.
