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.

What does loss of balance indicate?

Loss of balance or unsteadiness 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).

How do you cure loss of balance?

Treatment for loss of balance may involve taking medication, making lifestyle changes, or even undergoing surgery in some cases. Some people will need to manage a balance condition long-term, and they may need to work with a specialist called a vestibular rehabilitation therapist.

How can seniors improve their balance?

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.

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)

What doctor do you see for balance issues?

To find out if you have a balance problem, your primary doctor may suggest that you see an otolaryngologist and an audiologist. An otolaryngologist is a physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, neck, and throat.

What medicine is good for balance?

Your healthcare professional may prescribe motion-sickness medications such as meclizine (Antivert) to relieve the acute feelings of vertigo and dizziness, and possibly methylprednisolone to reduce inner ear inflammation. An antibiotic is sometimes prescribed.

Is walking good for balance?

Nearly any activity that keeps you on your feet and moving, such as walking, can help you maintain good balance. But specific exercises designed to enhance your balance are beneficial to include in your daily routine and can help improve your stability.

What are 5 exercises for balance?

Best 5 Balance Exercises

• Balance on one foot. Balancing on one foot is one of the easiest exercises.
• Single leg lift. – Stand erect with feet close together.
• Single leg side lift. – Stand with feet close together.
• Leg lift with dumbbells.
• Balance on a stability ball.
• Balance walk.

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.

Do you lose balance as you get older?

As we age, we lose balance function through loss of sensory elements, the ability to integrate information and issue motor commands, and because we lose musculoskeletal function. Diseases common in aging populations lead to further deterioration in balance function in some patients.