Disorders of the vestibular system can cause inability to perform professional and social activities, in addition to causing physical and emotional problems. This disability caused by vestibular symptoms, whether related to emotional, functional, or physical aspects, is of great importance in the individual's social and personal context, regardless of its etiology, considerably affecting their quality of life. In the social context, individuals with symptoms arising from vestibular dysfunction such as dizziness and vertigo, avoid participating in family gatherings, visiting friends and neighbors due to fear of walking and leaving home, affecting their quality of life. The identification of social aspects in these individuals can help in choosing the most appropriate therapy. However, the investigation of social aspects of quality of life is little explored in individuals with vestibular dysfunction.

Investigate the social aspects of quality of life in individuals with vestibular dysfunction.

This is a pilot cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. For descriptive statistics, Jamovi version 2.3.25 was used. Inclusion criteria are age ≥18 years; both genders; complaining of dizziness or vertigo for at least 3 months; medical diagnosis of vestibular dysfunction. Exclusion criteria are lower limb amputation; ataxia; low vision or blindness; locomotion aided by devices such as a wheelchair, canes, or crutches; dizziness or vertigo that is not vestibular in origin; psychiatric disorders in crisis; underwent vestibular rehabilitation in the last 6 months; presence of chronic orthopedic disease; refusal to sign the Free and Informed Consent Form. For evaluation, a specific form for sociodemographic data and the Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short Form Health Survey (SF 36) questionnaire was used, using only the score (0-100) of the “social aspects” domain, which considers the family relationship, relationship with friends or groups as a social aspect.

Of the five individuals evaluated, 3 were women and 2 men, the age group had an average of 46.4 with a standard deviation of 20 years, 3 had completed higher education, 2 had completed high school, as a work activity 2 were maids, 1 civil engineer, 1 systems developer, 1 physiotherapist. Of the sample analyzed, 3 had a score of 25 points and 2 had a score of 63 points. Considering this score, most individuals had a poor social aspect, a quarter of what is considered excellent for the evaluated domain (social aspect).

We identified low scores in the social aspects of quality of life in individuals with vestibular dysfunction. New research whose social aspects are analyzed as a primary outcome should be encouraged.

This study suggests that people with vestibular dysfunction may have low scores on social aspects of quality of life. This research can contribute to physical therapy practice, as it highlights a relevant aspect in the functionality and health of people with vestibular dysfunction.