Association Between Visuospatial Ability and Vestibular Function in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging

摘要: Numerous lines of evidence— epidemiological, physiological, histopathological— have shown that vestibular function declines with age.1–4 The system is known for its role in maintaining balance and postural control, several studies noted associations between loss impairment falls older individuals.5–7 Increasing evidence demonstrates important connections the various domains cognitive function, most notably visuospatial ability, but also memory, executive attention.8–11 Studies animals individuals unilateral or bilateral suggest provides critical information about spatial orientation, navigation.10–13 Visuospatial ability deteriorates age. greater difficulty navigation real-world virtual environments. Older adults make more errors returning to their starting locations remembering previously observed targets.14–17 In addition, perception subjective visual vertical appears degrade age, deviations from true healthy than younger adults.18 It unknown whether associated age plays a degradation these functions elderly adults. This link may be establish, given orientation mediate association age-related falls. The current study used data Baltimore Longitudinal Study Aging (BLSA) evaluate cross-sectional selected including attention. saccule, end organ responsible measuring changes respect gravity, was specifically considered. Based on existing literature, it hypothesized would strongest ability. A series structural equation models developed extent which cognition. These analyses offer insight into mechanisms by peripheral sensitivity specific inform future research preventive treatment strategies decline.