Functioning and disability in aged persons with vertigo – results from the KORA-Age study

Background: Vertigo and dizziness are among the most common symptoms in medical practice with significant impact on functioning and overall quality of life of the affected individuals. Specifically in aged persons, vertigo may substantially impair daily activities and increase the risk of falls. Still, little is known about the actual frequency of vertigo and dizziness in adults over 65 and about the association of vertigo and disability in this age group. Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of vertigo and dizziness in aged persons living in the community, to investigate the association between disability and vertigo and dizziness in this age group, and to identify sociodemographic characteristics and health conditions modifying this association. Material and Methods: The data originate from the MONICA/KORA study, a population-based epidemiological cohort study established in 1984. Survivors of the original cohorts aged 65 years and above were examined by telephone interview from 01/2009 until 12/2009. Disability was assessed with the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI). Prevalence of vertigo and dizziness was assessed using standardized questions. The association between vertigo and disability was examined with multiple logistic regression accounting for sociodemographic variables and comorbidities. Results: We analyzed a total of 4127 persons (51.1% female) with a mean age of 73.3 years (SD=6.1). 26.6% experienced vertigo or dizziness within the last twelve months. Disability (HAQ-DI >0) was present in 62.9% (n=681) of persons with vertigo or dizziness and in 37.8% (n=1132) in persons without (RR=1.66). The association persisted when controlled for age, sex, marital status and comorbidities. (OR=2.01). Conclusions: Functioning of older adults in the community is impaired by symptoms of vertigo or dizziness. Further research is needed to understand the particular impairments and limitations due to vertigo and dizziness to develop effective intervention and prevention programmes.