---

Is Losing Balance as you age Normal?

You must have noticed that as people get older, they seem to lose their balance more easily.

Maybe you’ve seen an older family member stumble or feel unsteady while walking.

Losing balance isn’t just a normal part of aging—it happens for specific reasons.

The good news?

You can take steps to improve your balance and reduce the risk of falls!

Why Does Balance Get Worse With Age?

Several factors contribute to poor balance as we age:

Weaker Muscles – As we get older, we naturally lose muscle strength, especially in our legs.

Strong muscles are essential for keeping us stable and preventing falls.

Joint Stiffness – Over time, our joints can become less flexible due to arthritis or reduced activity,

making movements less smooth and coordinated.

Inner Ear Changes – The inner ear plays a big role in balance, but aging can affect its function,

leading to dizziness or unsteadiness.

Slower Reflexes – Our nervous system slows down with age,

meaning our body reacts more slowly when we trip or lose balance.

Vision Problems – Good balance depends on clear vision.

If eyesight worsens, it becomes harder to judge distances and avoid obstacles.

Certain Medications – Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness,

making it easier to lose balance.

How to Improve Your Balance and Stay Steady

The good news is that balance can be improved at any age!

Here are some simple ways to keep yourself steady on your feet:

1. Stay Active

Regular exercise helps maintain muscle strength and flexibility.

Walking, swimming, and yoga are great for overall fitness.

2. Try Balance Exercises

Balance-focused exercises like standing on one leg and heel-to-toe walking can improve stability.

3. Strengthen Your Legs

Stronger leg muscles mean better balance.

Squats, lunges, and calf raises can help build lower body strength.

_{^{Image source: hingehealth.com}}

4. Check Your Vision

Since vision plays a major role in balance, regular eye exams ensure you’re seeing clearly and avoiding falls.

5. Be Aware of Your Medications

If you feel dizzy or lightheaded after starting a new medication,

talk to your doctor about possible side effects.

6. Use Support When Needed

If you feel unsteady, don’t hesitate to use a cane or walker for extra support.

Also, wear supportive, non-slip shoes to reduce the risk of slipping.

7. Improve Your Home Safety

Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, clutter, or poor lighting.

Installing grab bars in bathrooms and using handrails on stairs can also help prevent falls.

When to Get Help

If balance problems are interfering with daily life,

a physiotherapist can help you regain stability.

Dr. Farjad Afzal, a leading expert in Sargodha,

specializes in fall prevention and mobility training.

With professional guidance,

you can maintain confidence in your movement and reduce the risk of falls.

Small daily changes can make a big difference in keeping you steady and independent for years to come!