Getting older often means a decline in our vision, hearing and coordination, but the decline of our balance is one thing that can be slowed. Now new research indicates that it is very important to work on slowing the deterioration of our balance.
When we no longer have our balance, we become accessible to falls. Falling can be hazardous at any age, but according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is the fifth-leading cause of death for people aged 65 and older.
To prevent falls, the CDC suggests exercising routinely to sustain muscle. They also recommend getting enough vitamin D and calcium to support bone strength.
An increasing amount of physicians and physical therapists suggest doing exercises specifically created to challenge the complicated system of reflexes that control our stability. It is even suggested that even young people should begin doing these exercises.
Many people who begin a program that incorporates these types of exercises are surprised to find out how their balance has deteriorated over time. Frequently balance is underestimated in how significant it is to getting around the everyday risks in daily life such as escalators and uneven sidewalks.
Samples of things to do to improve balance include balancing on the floor with one foot, standing on a pillow, walking on grass instead of concrete and looking around in different directions while walking instead of just looking straight ahead.
0 Responses to “Improving balance can prevent falls as we age”