Effect of Vestibular Stimulation on Balance and Cognitive Function Among Elderly Individuals in a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India

Abstract

Background:Age-related decline in balance and cognition significantly contributes to increased fall risk and reduced quality of life among the elderly. The vestibular system plays a crucial role in maintaining postural stability and has emerging links with cognitive processes. Vestibular stimulation has been proposed as a potential intervention to improve these functions.

Objectives:To evaluate the effect of vestibular stimulation on balance and cognitive function among elderly individuals and to determine the association between improvements in these domains.

Methods:A prospective interventional study was conducted among 146 elderly participants aged ≥60 years in a tertiary care hospital in North India from April to July 2017. Baseline assessment of balance and cognition was performed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), respectively. Participants underwent a structured vestibular stimulation program for four weeks. Post-intervention assessments were conducted using the same tools. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.0, and paired t-test was applied to compare pre- and post-intervention scores. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:The mean BBS score improved significantly from 41.2 ± 6.5 to 46.8 ± 5.9 (p<0.001), indicating enhanced balance. Similarly, MMSE scores showed a significant increase from 24.1 ± 3.2 to 26.3 ± 2.8 (p<0.001), reflecting improved cognitive function. Greater improvements in balance were observed among younger elderly participants (60–69 years) compared to older age groups (p=0.02). A moderate positive correlation (r=0.42, p<0.001) was found between improvements in balance and cognition.

Conclusion:Vestibular stimulation significantly improves both balance and cognitive function in elderly individuals and may serve as an effective, non-invasive intervention in geriatric care. Its integration into routine rehabilitation programs could help reduce fall risk and enhance functional independence.