Investigation of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Risk Factors for Falls in Adults and Elderly with Chronic Dizziness

• Grant number: 24/23225-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Speech Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Fátima Cristina Alves Branco Barreiro
• Grantee: Guilherme Batista da Silva
• Host Institution: Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São Paulo. São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Falls are one of the leading causes of health issues among adults and older adults, significantly impacting quality of life and healthcare costs. Chronic dizziness, common in this population, triples the risk of falls due to impaired balance and functionality. Intrinsic factors, such as advanced age and vestibular disorders, and extrinsic factors, such as slippery floors and environmental obstacles, exacerbate this scenario. This study aims to investigate intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors associated with falls in adults and older adults with chronic dizziness, focusing on prevention. A prospective, descriptive cross-sectional study will be conducted at the Vestibular Evaluation and Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic of UNIFESP. Data collection will involve instruments such as anamnesis and specific questionnaires to analyze the history of falls and identify risk factors. Participants will include individuals aged 50 years or older with a clinical diagnosis of chronic dizziness and independent ambulation. This study is expected to contribute to the implementation of preventive measures aimed at reducing falls and improving the quality of life in this population.