09/23/2025
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and yet balance is one of the most overlooked elements of fitness. As a physical therapist who works with aging clients, I prioritize balance just as much as strength or flexibility, and here’s why.
Balance is not just about your inner ear. It involves your muscles, joints, vision, reflexes, and even your brain. As we age, all of these systems become less responsive if not actively trained. Add in factors like joint stiffness, medication side effects, or neuropathy, and balance becomes even more difficult.
The good news? It’s highly trainable.
Simple movements like single-leg stands, tandem walking, heel-to-toe steps, or practicing getting up from the floor can dramatically reduce your fall risk. Add strength training to this, especially for the hips, core, and ankles, and your stability improves even further.
It’s never too late to improve your balance, and doing so may be one of the most powerful ways to preserve your independence and longevity.
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