EFFECTS OF VESTIBULAR PHYSIOTHERAPY ON FALL PREVENTION AND BALANCE PROMOTION IN THE ELDERLY: A LITERATURE REVIEW.

Abstract

Introduction: With advancing age, there is a decline in the function of the vestibular system, which is essential for postural control. This impairment can result in dizziness, instability, and an increased risk of falls. In this context, vestibular physical therapy stands out as a promising approach, utilizing specific exercises to stimulate central nervous system neuroplasticity and promote mechanisms of adaptation, habituation, and sensory substitution. Objective: To analyze the effects of vestibular physical therapy in improving balance and reducing the risk of falls in the elderly. Methodology: The present study is characterized as a literature review, conducted through the analysis and synthesis of recent scientific publications on vestibular physical therapy in older adults. The review included studies published between 2020 and 2025, available in full text, written in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, encompassing clinical trials and observational studies. Results: The search yielded 157 articles, of which 33 were excluded due to being unavailable in full text or due to duplication. Thus, 124 studies were included for a rigorous evaluation. Of these, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Discussion: The included studies reported on vestibular physical therapy in older adults. In this scenario, it was observed that older adults previously classified as being in a fall risk zone were able to improve their scores. There was also a significant improvement in scales related to functional self-confidence, suggesting that the intervention acts not only on biomechanical components but also on psycho-behavioral aspects. Conclusion: Based on the study, it is observed that vestibular physical therapy promotes an improvement in balance and reduces the risk of falls in the elderly.