Dizziness in the Elderly

Abstract This instructional unit on dizziness in the elderly was originally designed for use as a 1-hour credit in a web-based distance curriculum. The unit is divided into three modules, each 15-20 minutes in length. The unit's design allows it to be delivered as either a facilitated or self-directed tutorial or as a lecture. Each 15- to 20-minute module includes lecture notes that a presenter can use with his/her own modifications or as a narrative to provide voice overlay for distance-based education. The 15- to 20-minute modular format is concise and partialized, allowing presenters to select the most relevant information for their audience. Case-based questions at the conclusion of each module allow participants to apply the information learned. The major educational concepts addressed are dizziness in the elderly with a focus on aging physiology as a risk factor (Module 1), basic principles of evaluation and initial treatment (Module 2), and management and treatment of specific etiologies of dizziness (Module 3). Doing a stepwise evaluation that is laced with practical tips and advice is strongly emphasized. Supported by a Geriatric Educational Center grant, these modules have been reviewed by academic peers. Evaluations to date have been excellent, and distanced-based learners have appreciated the content and the format. The 15- to 20-minute segments are popular; learners have stated that they are less intimidating to complete. Learners also feel that the questions at the end of each module create a break and closure and that completion of the three-module unit is quite painless.