Balance, It Can Save Your Life!

In the United States, about one in three seniors over age 65, and almost one in two over age 80, will fall at least once this year -- often leading to serious disability or even death.

Sadly, with aging, the list of risk factors for falling only grows. Trouble is many seniors take this to mean limited physical activity would be safer, when, in fact, the safest route involves staying mobile and strong. 

Consider a few tips to improve your chances of staying upright:

Build Your Balance - Strength, flexibility, and endurance are crucial to maintaining balance and preventing falls. Break out your gardening gloves or yoga mat or dancin' shoes -- whatever will incent you to move your bod.

The American Physical Therapy Association details some great exercises to improve balance.

Or you could take Teri's advice and strike the ballerina pose using a sturdy chair. By gently squatting, steadying yourself with the chair, you can help build important leg muscles risk-free.

Check Common Culprits Around the House - You know that cord (or piece of furniture or rug) you've tripped on a dozen times now? Consider finding it a new spot.

Cindy and Stephen have been helping their mom recover from a bad fall these days, and they are seeing first-hand the many little things around the house that can cause mischief for unsteady legs.

Whether it be a dog's slobbery water bowl, a slippery rug, or a gnarly coffee table corner, consider taking precautions. Do it for the kat. ^..^

Study Those Drug & Alcohol Interactions - If it can happen to Heath Ledger, it can happen to you. Certain drugs (including tranquilizers, heart medicines, blood pressure medicines, and mood-altering drugs) and alcohol can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and slowed reflexes, especially when combined.

Posture Counts - Poor posture, particularly if you tend to slouch forward and have rounded upper shoulders, can cause unsteadiness. Width of stance matters too. Holding a wide stance (think: gun fighters in the old West), as opposed to a narrow one (think: soldiers), can help keep you on your feet.