A eficácia da reabilitação vestibular: um estudo comparativo por meio da reavaliação funcional e instrumental em pessoas idosas com disfunção vestibular periférica

Abstract

Introduction: The growth of the elderly population in Brazil has contributed to the higher incidence of vestibular disorders, which compromise balance, autonomy, and quality of life in older adults. Vestibular rehabilitation has proven to be an effective method for the functional recovery of these individuals, reducing symptoms such as dizziness and postural instability. However, objective proof of its effectiveness still requires the standardization of clinical and instrumental reassessment. Objective: To prove the effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation through the reassessment of standardized instruments that measure balance, vestibular function, symptom reduction, and quality of life in older adults with peripheral vestibular dysfunction. Methods: This is an observational, longitudinal study with a quantitative approach, carried out at the Clínica Escola de Fonoaudiologia da PUC Goiás. The sample consisted of ten older adults assisted by the SUS, who underwent vestibular rehabilitation and were reassessed through static and dynamic balance tests, vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) assessment, Vectoelectronystagmography (VENG) with caloric testing, and quality-of-life questionnaires, such as the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results and Discussion: The findings proved the effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation in improving balance, vestibular function, and quality of life, corroborating the findings of the authors reviewed in the literature. The study strengthens evidence-based clinical practice in Speech-Language Pathology and contributes to comprehensive healthcare for older adults. Keywords: dizziness; older adults; vestibular assessment; vestibular rehabilitation.