Stay Balanced

As we age the ability to maintain balance becomes more difficult. Many factors influence good balance, some of them are biological; and some we are able to influence and are able to improve. Balance and stability are important factors for aging adults to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  Loss of balance is the primary factor in falls, which often results in serious injuries.

Here are 6 reasons why people struggle to stay balanced:

1. Poor eye sight
2. Poor posture
3. Loss of muscle mass and strength
4. Loss of flexiblity
5. Medications
6. Poor nutrition and hydration
7. Poor breathing

Now here are 6 ways to improve your balance:

1. Get a yearly eye exam
2. Do postural exercises such as yoga or tai chi  (Start at the beginner level to be sure that you understand all movement patterns)
3. Strength train 3 days a week and walk for 30 min. 5 times a week if possible (Begin strength training using machines but then progress to free weights and standing up within a few months.   Begin walking in a pool if your joints hurt you walking on the ground.  Make sure to have a personal trainer or someone experienced show you the proper technique )
4. Join a stretching/flexibility class to learn different ways to stretch (Work with a personal trainer or check your local Continuing Ed, office or a gym near you for a class to attend)
5.Take the right dosage and proper combination of medications (Check with your doctor/pharmacist on a regular basis to avoid dizziness and nausea)
6. Eat 3 meals a day at regular times and drink plenty of water (Make sure that each meal has protein such as meat/eggs/dairy, complex carbs such as fruits and veggies, and a small amount of fat such as oil.  Consuming all three food groups at each meal helps your digestive system stay balanced) (Drink enough water each day that your urine is very light yellow.   If it's darker, drink more water because your muscles and kidneys aren't getting enough which throws off your muscle balance)

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