Begin a Regular Exercise Program

As we age, our joints loose flexibility and muscles may get weaker. These changes can cause our balance reactions to slow. As balance reactions slow, walking can become unsteady.

Special exercises can help improve joint flexibility and strength, making our balance reactions more efficient. When our balance reactions work more efficiently, our chance of falling decreases.

Talk to your physician before beginning any exercise program. If you do experience unsteadiness, your exercise routine may need special adaptations to ensure your safety. If your symptoms are more severe, you may benefit in personalized instruction by a physical therapist.

Walking: The most important activity
Regular aerobic exercise such as walking has been shown to improve heart health, decrease osteoporosis risk, and help older adults maintain independent mobility. In addition, regular aerobic exercise helps you reduce stress, sleep better, and maintain a healthy body weight.

The recommendation is to walk 20 to 30 minutes at least 3 times weekly. If you are staring a new walking program, start with less and work up gradually. Your physician or therapist can give you assistance on how to safely start a new program.

Exercises to Improve Balance
Exercise has been proven to improve balance for most individuals. If you have a more severe balance problem, talk to your physician about seeing a physical therapist. Your physical therapist will assess your needs and prescribe an exercise program designed to improve stability.