Vestibular dysfunction and cognitive skills: Pilot study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundthe association between vestibular dysfunction and cognitive impairment has been pointed out by the literature. Recently, some studies have found an association between vestibular dysfunction and cognitive skills such as attention, memory and visuospatial function,Methodcross‐sectional, observational and analytical study. The sample consisted of elderly people (n=11) aged between 60 and 89 years old, of both sexes witch an average of fours years of schooling, with peripheral vestibulopathy confirmed through exams Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP) and Video Head Impulse Test (v‐HIT). Participants underwent cognitive assessment using The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Brief Neuropsychological Assessment Instrument (Neupsilin), Pfeffer's Daily Life Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), Brazilian version of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) and the Geriatric Depression Scale version of 15 items (GDS‐15).Resultan association was found between the total score of the MMSE with schooling and DHI; FAB with left P16 latency and cervical asymmetry index; the FAQ score correlated with DHI and GDS‐15 with the VAS and BBS scale.ConclusionThere was an association between education and the result of the cognitive screening test. The impact of dizziness on the quality of life of the elderly was observed. Functionality and psychological distress were related to the impact of dizziness on quality of life and body balance.