Dizziness in the elderly.

Vertigo, unsteadiness, and other balance-related symptoms are common among older adults. These complaints should be taken seriously because they can lead to falls, injuries, loss of independence, and even death. This article provides a review of the underlying causes for the increased prevalence of dizziness with age, and discusses how specific test procedures may need to be modified for older individuals. Issues related to the management of these symptoms in the aging population are also considered.