March 21, 2024 | Jixian Wang, Yongfang Li, Guo-Yuan Yang, Kunlin Jin
This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted aspects of age-related balance changes, highlighting their prevalence, underlying causes, and impact on the elderly population. It delves into the physiological changes that occur with aging, such as alterations in the vestibular, visual, and proprioceptive systems, as well as musculoskeletal degeneration. The review examines the role of neurological disorders, cognitive decline, and medication side effects in exacerbating balance issues. It underscores the importance of early detection and effective intervention strategies, including exercise programs, rehabilitation techniques, and technological advancements like virtual reality, wearable devices, and telemedicine. The paper also discusses the need for a holistic approach in managing balance disorders, encompassing medication review, addressing comorbidities, and environmental modifications. Future research directions emphasize the need for deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying balance changes with aging and the potential of emerging technologies and interdisciplinary approaches in enhancing assessment and intervention methods. This review aims to provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers to develop targeted strategies to improve the quality of life and ensure the well-being of the aging population.This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted aspects of age-related balance changes, highlighting their prevalence, underlying causes, and impact on the elderly population. It delves into the physiological changes that occur with aging, such as alterations in the vestibular, visual, and proprioceptive systems, as well as musculoskeletal degeneration. The review examines the role of neurological disorders, cognitive decline, and medication side effects in exacerbating balance issues. It underscores the importance of early detection and effective intervention strategies, including exercise programs, rehabilitation techniques, and technological advancements like virtual reality, wearable devices, and telemedicine. The paper also discusses the need for a holistic approach in managing balance disorders, encompassing medication review, addressing comorbidities, and environmental modifications. Future research directions emphasize the need for deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying balance changes with aging and the potential of emerging technologies and interdisciplinary approaches in enhancing assessment and intervention methods. This review aims to provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers to develop targeted strategies to improve the quality of life and ensure the well-being of the aging population.