About a third of Americans over the age of 65 have trouble with balance and walking. According to the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging, a nonprofit organization established by the American Geriatrics Society, about one-third of Americans over the age of 65, and half over 75, suffer a fall each year. Seniors report many reasons for falling, including environmental obstacles like slippery floors or loose rugs, and medical conditions such as weak muscles or dizzy spells.
Assessment
A senior can keep his balance while walking or standing by predicting those things that might cause him to lose his balance. A nurse can use a special tool to assess your risk for falling and can suggest furniture changes or assistive devices to help you keep your balance while maneuvering through the house. Speak with your doctor about any medications, like blood pressure drugs, sedatives and anti-depressants, that may be affecting your balance.
Sensory Awareness
Seniors can improve balance through increased sensory awareness. Switch reading glasses for regular prescription glasses before standing or walking, especially before navigating stairs. Turn the lights on so you can see where you are going. Keep your eyes focused several feet ahead of your body, looking ahead for obstacles in your path. Slide your hand along the wall as you walk to help maintain balance. Arrange to have handrails installed on your home's staircases if possible.
Assistive Devices
Use devices to maintain balance. There are a variety of assistive devices, like walkers and canes, which can help you stay upright and avoid falls. A walker is a sturdy frame made from lightweight materials that provides more support to people with balance issues than do canes. Manage any foot problems you may have, and wear proper footwear to increase your balance and stability while walking or standing. Do not alter assistive devices in any way that affects their safety.
Physiotherapy
Engage in a physiotherapy program designed to improve balance in the elderly. Therapy should include balance, gait, and strength training. According to the American Geriatrics Society, tai chi and physical therapy are particularly effective. Tai chi is a form of slow exercise movements that can sometimes be learned in classes at local senior centers. Flexibility and endurance training may be helpful for your overall health but is not necessary to improve balance.
Environment
Some seniors find assistive devices cumbersome in the home and prefer to hang onto counters and sturdy tables as they navigate. Inspect any furniture you use in this manner to be sure it is sturdy enough for you to grab on to, and make sure there are no sharp edges that may cause injury. Secure your area rugs with carpet tape to prevent them from slipping when you walk on them, and remove obstacles such as toys, clothing, garbage or any unnecessary items from hallways and walkways to reduce the likelihood of a fall.
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