Inactivity, Balance Problems and Fall Risk in Institutionalized Frail Elderly

Inactivity, Balance Problems and Fall Risk in Institutionalized Frail Elderly: What is the Impact of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and Treatment Effectiveness?

The overall objective of the research is to identify the prevalence and incidence of BPPV and the impact on balance problems, fall risk and inactivity in frail elderly. The investigators will demonstrate the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in this patient group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Institutionalized in a nursing home for at least 3 months
• Able to understand and follow simple instructions
• Able to stand independently for 30 seconds
• Willing to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of progressive neurological diseases (such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) resulting in a fast decline within 3 months
• Rehabilitating for a neurological or orthopaedic incident such as knee prosthesis, stroke,… )
• Contra-indication for Hallpike and Epley maneuver