Finding Balance: Causes and treatments for dizziness

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, our commitment remains the same: supporting your health, wellness, and independence through education and movement. Exercise has always been one of our favorite topics, and this month, we are turning our attention to a concern that many of our patients face: dizziness and balance challenges. Whether it’s a fleeting moment of lightheadedness or the spinning sensation of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), dizziness can affect daily activities, confidence, and safety.

Overview of Dizziness in Older Adults: Causes and Symptoms

Dizziness is a broad term that encompasses a range of sensations, including feeling faint, woozy, weak, unsteady, or as if the room is spinning (vertigo). For seniors, dizziness is not only uncomfortable but also increases the risk of falls and injuries.

Common Symptoms of Dizziness

• Vertigo: A sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving.

• Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or as if you might pass out.

• Loss of balance: Unsteadiness, stumbling, or difficulty walking.

• Floating or wooziness: A heavy-headed or “swimming” feeling.

• Nausea or vomiting: Sometimes accompanies the dizzy spells.

These symptoms may be triggered or exacerbated by walking, standing, or head movement. Episodes can last seconds to days and may recur.

Key Causes of Dizziness in Seniors

Dizziness in older adults can result from a variety of medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors. Age itself is also a major risk factor. Here is a short summary of common causes and typical symptoms.

Common Causes of Dizziness in Seniors

Cause	Description/Examples	Typical Symptoms
Inner ear disorders	BPPV, Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuritis	Vertigo, imbalance, nausea
Circulatory problems	Orthostatic hypotension, heart disease	Lightheadedness, fainting
Medications	Blood pressure meds, sedatives, antidepressants	Dizziness, drowsiness
Dehydration	Low fluid intake, excessive sweating	Lightheadedness, confusion
Blood sugar imbalances	Diabetes, missed meals	Dizziness, sweating, anxiety
Anemia	Low iron, chronic disease	Fatigue, weakness, pale skin
Neurological conditions	Parkinson’s, stroke, migraine	Imbalance, vertigo, weakness
Vision problems	Poor eyesight, cataracts	Unsteadiness, falls
Anxiety/mood disorders	Panic attacks, depression	Wooziness, lightheadedness

Treatment Options

Dizziness is hard to live with, so the first step is to learn the cause. A combination of your medical history, symptom description, and specific tests can help pinpoint the cause. While treatment plans are always individualized, the following common strategies are often used.

Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) is one of the most common and also one of the most treatable causes of dizziness. BPPV happens when tiny crystals in your inner ear move out of place. These crystals typically help you sense gravity and balance, but when they slip into the wrong spot, they send confusing signals to your brain — causing dizziness or a spinning feeling when you move your head. The mainstay of BPPV treatment is the canalith repositioning maneuver, most commonly the Epley maneuver. These maneuvers are designed to dislodge otoconia (crystals) from the semicircular canal and return them to their proper position, thereby relieving symptoms.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized therapy program designed to improve balance, reduce dizziness, and enhance daily function in people with vestibular disorders—including BPPV, vestibular neuritis, and persistent dizziness.

What Does VRT Involve?

• Gaze stabilization exercises: Training the eyes and head to work together, improving vision during movement.

• Balance training: Standing, walking, and weight-shifting exercises on various surfaces.

• Habituation exercises: Gradual exposure to movements that provoke dizziness, retraining the brain to tolerate them.

• Functional training: Practicing daily activities with safe movement strategies.

VRT is highly effective, improving physical, emotional, and functional aspects of dizziness. Studies show significant reductions in dizziness handicap scores and improved balance, even in those with chronic symptoms or central vestibular disorders.

Practical Tips and Tricks for Managing Dizziness in Daily Life

Hydration: The Foundation of Dizziness Prevention

Dehydration is a common and preventable cause of dizziness in seniors. As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes, and our bodies have less water reserve. Dehydration can lead to low blood pressure, confusion, fatigue, and increased risk of falls.

Signs of Dehydration

• Thirst, dry mouth, dark urine

• Fatigue, confusion, dizziness

• Muscle cramps, headache

• Low blood pressure, rapid heart rate

Tips for Staying Hydrated

• Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• Keep a water bottle handy.

• Set reminders or alarms to drink.

• Add flavor to water (lemon, berries) if plain water is unappealing.

• Include hydrating foods in your diet (melon, cucumber, soups).

• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

Home Safety Modifications to Reduce Fall Risk

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and dizziness is a major contributor. Simple changes at home can dramatically reduce your risk.

Room-by-Room Safety Checklist

• Floors: Remove loose rugs, secure carpets, clear clutter and cords.

• Lighting: Install bright bulbs, nightlights, and motion sensors in hallways, stairs, and bathrooms.

• Stairs: Add handrails on both sides, use non-slip strips, and mark step edges with contrasting tape.

• Bathrooms: Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower/tub, use non-slip mats, and consider a shower chair or raised toilet seat.

• Kitchen: Store frequently used items at waist level, use pull-out drawers, and clean up spills immediately.

• Bedroom: Keep a lamp or light switch within reach, use nightlights, and keep a phone nearby for emergencies.

• Entrances: Level uneven surfaces, use non-slip mats, ensure good outdoor lighting.

Vision and hearing checks are also important, as poor eyesight or hearing can increase fall risk.

Daily Strategies for Managing Dizziness and BPPV Episodes

• Move slowly: When standing up or changing positions, do so gradually to avoid sudden drops in blood pressure.

• Sit or lie down immediately: If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down to prevent falls.

• Elevate your head: Sleep with your head slightly raised to reduce BPPV symptoms.

• Avoid sleeping on the affected side: If you know which ear is affected, avoid sleeping on that side.

• Keep a symptom diary: Track when and how dizziness occurs to help your healthcare provider identify triggers.

• Use mobility aids: Canes or walkers can provide extra support if balance is an issue.

• Practice gentle exercises: Tai chi, yoga, and walking can improve balance and circulation.

• Limit alcohol and caffeine: Both can worsen dehydration and dizziness.

• Eat regular, balanced meals: Prevent blood sugar fluctuations that can cause dizziness.

• Monitor blood pressure: Track regularly, especially if you take medications that affect blood pressure.

When to Seek Medical Help: Red Flags

Call your healthcare provider or seek emergency care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe dizziness that does not improve

• Fainting or loss of consciousness

• Chest pain or shortness of breath

• Difficulty speaking or weakness on one side (possible stroke)

• Persistent vomiting with dizziness

• Vision changes or confusion

• Trouble walking, stumbling, or loss of movement in arms or legs.

Remember: Sudden, severe dizziness—especially with other neurological symptoms—can be a sign of stroke. Act FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911).

If you or a loved one experiences dizziness, don’t hesitate to reach out to your LifeCare Team. With evidence-based care and practical adjustments, we can help you manage your symptoms. Now, enjoy a refreshing glass of water, and then yep, you guessed it. Do your exercises! :-)

Until next month...