Understanding the Experience of Age-Related Vestibular Loss in Older Individuals: A Qualitative Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Inner ear balance (or vestibular) function declines with age and is associated with decreased mobility and an increased risk of falls in older individuals. We sought to understand the lived experience of older adults with vestibular loss in order to improve care in this population.

Methods

Qualitative data were derived from semi-structured interviews of individuals aged 65 years or older presenting to the Balance and Falls Prevention Clinic from February 1, 2014 to March 30, 2015 for evaluation of age-related vestibular loss. Transcripts were analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis. We created a taxonomy of overarching superordinate themes based on the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (IC

SUBMITTER: Harun A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4925240 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature