Increased Balance is Another Benefit of Exercise for Seniors

Increased Balance Can Help Reduce Accidental Falls

Researchers recently reviewed prior studies and have found yet another benefit for exercising. Exercise helps elderly people with their sense of balance, and ability to remain on their feet, according to a recent press release. Falling in the primary cause of hospitalizations for people over the age of 65.

As people age, their sense of balance diminishes with time. By continuing to exercise, older adults are at a lower risk of falling than those who don't exercise.

The researchers found that exercises didn't need to be difficult to be beneficial. Strength training, walking, balance work, tai chi, or dancing are all helpful. Even the exercises designed for those who need to sit in chairs and use one leg or arm at a time are helpful.

Falls are one of the greatest health hazards that elderly people face. More people over the age of 65 are injured because of falling than any other type of accident.

Elderly people are more prone to falling due to many different causes. Some of the causes include loosing eyesight or hearing, illnesses or lack of strength, lack of balance, taking medications, and sleep problems are just a few of the many reasons that contribute to the risk of falling.

Without being able to balance, even younger people have a difficult time walking, bending, and moving around. We use balance in our everyday activities without realizing it.

Comparing one's ability to balance with trees, researchers said that young trees could bend and sway with the wind, making them much more resistant to being uprooted in a severe storm. Older trees that were unable to bend and sway are at more risk of being uprooted during an extreme storm.

"Our message is that some form of exercise will improve balance and it's never too late to exercise. Specifically, exercise that challenges your balance is best," said Tracey Howe, the lead author of the study.

Researchers hope to expand their research. They want to determine whether or not a particular type of exercise is more beneficial in preventing falling than another.