230224 Balance maintenance[1]
Definition
Balance refers to our ability to maintain our equilibrium, simply stated, keeping your balance in our daily living actively living. These include standing, walking, reaching along with a host of other movements.[2]
[3]Maintaining balance requires multiple parts of the body to work together. Balance declines with age, raising the risk of falls and other injuries among older adults. Balance exercises for seniors can help older adults prevent falls, improve functional mobility, and stay independent.
Do I have a balance problem? Questions to ask yourself
You can help identify a balance problem by asking yourself some key questions. If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it may be time to talk with your doctor:
- Do I feel unsteady?
- Do I feel dizzy or as if the room is spinning around me, even if only for brief periods of time?
- Do I feel as if I’m moving when I know I’m standing or sitting still?
- Do I lose my balance and fall?
- Do I feel as if I’m falling?
- Does my vision become blurred?
If you think you have a balance problem, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to an otolaryngologist, a physician with special training in problems of the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck.
Treatments for balance problems and disorders
Exercises that involve moving the head and body in certain ways can help treat some balance disorders. Patient-specific exercises are developed by a physical therapist or other professional who understands balance and its relationship with other systems in the body.
Balance problems due to high blood pressure may be managed by eating less salt (sodium), maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising. Balance problems due to low blood pressure may be managed by drinking plenty of fluids such as water; avoiding alcohol; and being cautious regarding your body’s posture and movement, such as never standing up too quickly. Consult with your doctor about making any changes in your diet or activity level.
Coping with a balance disorder
Some people with a balance disorder may not be able to fully relieve their dizziness and will need to find ways to cope with it. A vestibular rehabilitation therapist can help develop an individualized treatment plan.
Chronic balance problems can affect all aspects of your life, including your relationships, work performance, and your ability to carry out daily activities. Support groups provide the opportunity to learn from other people with similar experiences and challenges.
If you have trouble with your balance, talk to your doctor about whether it’s safe to drive, and about ways to lower your risk of falling during daily activities, such as walking up or down stairs, using the bathroom, or exercising. To reduce your risk of injury from dizziness, do not walk in the dark. Avoid high heels and, instead, wear nonskid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes. Don’t walk on stairs or floors in socks or in shoes and slippers with smooth soles. If necessary, use a cane or walker. Make changes to add safety features at your home and workplace, such as adding handrails.
[2] https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-and-physical-activity/four-types-exercise-can-improve-your-health-and-physical#endurance
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/senior-health/balance-exercises-for-seniors
Physically Fit Seniors 