Common mistakes that can affect balance in older adults
Balance often changes with age, but falls are not an inevitable part of getting older. Several everyday habits can increase the risk of losing balance.
1. 🚶 Avoiding exercise
Being inactive can weaken the legs and core and reduce balance. Regular walking plus strength and balance exercises can help maintain function.
2. 👟 Wearing unstable footwear
Loose slippers, smooth soles, or poorly fitting shoes can make falls more likely. Choose comfortable, well-fitting shoes with good grip.
3. 🏠 Ignoring hazards at home
Loose rugs, clutter, poor lighting, electrical cords, and slippery bathroom surfaces are common fall hazards. Keep pathways clear and consider grab bars or nonslip surfaces where appropriate.
4. 💊 Overlooking medication effects
Some medicines can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or a drop in blood pressure, potentially affecting balance. Don’t stop medications yourself; ask a doctor or pharmacist to review them if you experience these symptoms.
5. 👀 Not addressing vision problems
Poor vision can make it harder to detect obstacles and judge steps or distances. Regular eye examinations are important.
6. 💧 Becoming dehydrated
Dehydration can contribute to weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Drink adequate fluids unless you’ve been told to restrict them for a medical reason.
7. 🧍 Standing up too quickly
A sudden change from lying or sitting to standing can cause a temporary blood-pressure drop (orthostatic hypotension). Rise gradually, especially after getting out of bed.
8. 🩺 Ignoring a new balance problem
A new or worsening loss of balance can sometimes be caused by an inner-ear disorder, medication effect, neurological problem, low blood pressure, or another medical condition.
When balance problems need urgent attention
Sudden loss of balance accompanied by facial drooping, one-sided weakness/numbness, trouble speaking, severe dizziness, or vision changes can be a sign of a stroke. Seek emergency medical care immediately.
For ongoing balance problems, a healthcare professional or physiotherapist can assess your walking, strength, medications, vision, and home environment and recommend appropriate exercises.
