Older Adults and Balance

September 2025 – Have you ever felt dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room were spinning around you? It could be a sign of a balance problem.

Many older adults experience problems with balance and dizziness. Problems can be caused by certain medications, balance disorders, or other medical conditions. Balance problems are one reason older people fall. Maintaining good balance as you age and learning about fall prevention can help you stay independent and carry out daily activities.

Balance problems can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions.

• Medications: Check with your doctor if you notice balance problems while taking certain medications. Ask if other medications can be used instead, if the dosage can be safely reduced, or if there are other ways to reduce unwanted side effects.
• Inner ear problems: The inner ear is responsible for balance. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause vertigo and imbalance.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can cause dizziness and balance problems
• Certain conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or problems with vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels can cause dizziness and balance problems.

Symptoms of a balance disorder

• Dizziness or vertigo
• Falling or feeling as if you are going to fall
• Staggering
• Lightheadedness or faintness
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or disorientation

Other symptoms might include nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; changes in heart rate and blood pressure and feelings of fear, anxiety, or panic. Symptoms may come and go over short periods or last for a long time.

You can help identify a balance problem by asking yourself some questions. If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it may be time to talk with your doctor:

• Do I feel unsteady?
• Do I feel dizzy or as if the room is spinning?
• Do I feel as if I’m moving when I know I’m standing or sitting still?
• Do I lose my balance and fall?
• Do I feel as if I’m falling?
• Does my vision become blurred?

[…] Balance problems due to high or low blood pressure may be managed with diet and exercise.[…]
If you have trouble with your balance, talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk of falling. […]