Postural disturbances in a 75-year-old population: I. Prevalence and functional consequences.

In a representative population of 425 women and 333 men aged 75 years a survey of postural disturbances showed a prevalence of 40% among women and 30% among men. The most common forms were a feeling of unsteadiness when rising from lying to standing and when walking. Postural disturbances had been present for more than 6 months in 85%. One third of the probands had daily or constant troubles and about one tenth of the subjects had these problems occasionally. Associated symptoms were unusual. About one fifth of the probands had fallen as a result of dizziness. Those with postural disturbances were also more handicapped and had a greater need for walking-aids, transport for the disabled, and home social services.