Improve Your Balance to Maintain Mobility & Safeguard Your Independence

The Harvard Medical School states the older we get, our body’s physical systems that maintain balance aren’t as responsive as they were when we were younger. They explain, “Maintaining balance is actually a complex task for your body, requiring coordinated action from not only your muscles, but also your eyes, ears, tendons, bones, and brain.”

Therefore balance isn’t only about physical fitness as various common health problems in older adults can affect it as well. These include inner ear disorders, decreased sensation in the feet, and postural hypotension (low blood pressure when standing), which can all increase a person’s risk for a fall. 

Good balance is important as it helps us to maintain our mobility and safeguard our independence. However doctors say doing strength training exercises a couple of times a week and taking daily walks may not be enough. For the best results, they recommend adding balance exercises into your weekly routine including both static balance exercises (done while standing still) and dynamic balance exercises (done while moving). 

The Internet has examples of both static and dynamic exercises to incorporate into your routine. Most are easy-to-do but be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercises and use a sturdy chair or a countertop to steady yourself if needed.  

Every aspect of the new MorningStar at West Valley is designed to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Located in West San Jose just south of the city of Santa Clara, we offer easy access to I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway and are close to both the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. Our compassionate home offers 42 suites spread out over two stories with a choice of studio or companion floor plans ranging in size from 318 to 492 square feet. 

Visit our website for information regarding our approach to dementia care and our wide range of services and amenities. We look forward to answering your questions and to helping you reserve a select suite.

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/finding-balance-3-simple-exercises-to-steady-your-steps-202110132612?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=BF20220314-Mobility&utm_id=3530093&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=3530093