For aging adults, inner ear disturbances are one of the primary causes of poor balance. Inside the ear is the vestibular system, which can become infected due to respiratory issues or viral infections. The vestibular system, also known as the labyrinth, is directly connected to the sense of balance.

What causes an elderly person to lose their balance?

Balance problems in seniors often occur with age, even for those with good health. Balance loss happens for various reasons, such as stiff or damaged joints or something more serious such as a neurological condition. However, inner ear problems are the most common culprit.

How can I help elderly with balance issues?

Read on to find 14 exercises seniors can do to improve their balance.

1. Exercise 1: Single Limb Stance.
2. Exercise 2: Walking Heel to Toe.
3. Exercise 3: Rock the Boat.
4. Exercise 4: Clock Reach.
5. Exercise 5: Back Leg Raises.
6. Exercise 6: Single Limb Stance with Arm.
7. Exercise 7: Side Leg Raise.
8. Exercise 8: Balancing Wand.

At what age does balance decline?

Most adults don’t think about their balance until they fall. The fact is, balance declines begin somewhere between 40 to 50 years of age. The National Institute of Health reports that one in three people over 65 will experience a fall each year.

How do you fix balance problems?

Your treatment may include:

1. Balance retraining exercises (vestibular rehabilitation). Therapists trained in balance problems design a customized program of balance retraining and exercises.
2. Positioning procedures.
3. Diet and lifestyle changes.
4. Medications.
5. Surgery.

Does walking improve balance?

Walking helps build lower-body strength, an important element of good balance. Walking is safe exercise for most people and, in addition to improving balance, counts toward your aerobic activity goals.

What vitamin is good for balance?

Vitamin D may improve muscle strength and function, as well as balance due to the improved strength.

Why is my balance off?

Causes of balance problems include medications, ear infection, a head injury, or anything else that affects the inner ear or brain. Low blood pressure can lead to dizziness when you stand up too quickly.

Why is my balance getting worse?

Losing your balance while walking, or feeling imbalanced, can result from: Vestibular problems. Abnormalities in your inner ear can cause a sensation of a floating or heavy head and unsteadiness in the dark. Nerve damage to your legs (peripheral neuropathy).

What medications cause balance problems?

Medications Can Cause Balance Problems

• Antidepressants.
• Anti-seizure drugs (anticonvulsants)
• Hypertensive (high blood pressure) drugs.
• Sedatives.
• Tranquilizers.
• Anxiolytics (anti-anxiety drugs)
• Antihistamines prescribed to relieve allergy symptoms.
• Aminoglycosides (a type of antibiotic)

How do I get my balance back?

Wait! You Can Fall Using a Walker or a Cane?

1. One-leg stands. Stand straight.
2. Heel-to-toe walking. Walk with the heel of the front foot touching the toe of the back foot as you take 10 steps forward.
3. Side-stepping.
4. Unassisted standing from a chair.
5. Tai chi.
6. Ankle pumping when you get out of bed.

What part of the body controls balance?

The cerebellum is a small part of the brain positioned at the back of the head, where it meets the spine, which acts as the body’s movement and balance control centre.

What is the best exercise for balance?

Balance Training

• Standing with your weight on one leg and raising the other leg to the side or behind you.
• Putting your heel right in front of your toe, like walking a tightrope.
• Standing up and sitting down from a chair without using your hands.
• Walking while alternating knee lifts with each step.
• Doing tai chi or yoga.