Health Tips

Maintaining your balance at old age

Maintaining your balance at old ageMaintaining your balance means less risk of falling — an important goal for seniors. The Cleveland Clinic offers these suggestions to help prevent falls: • Make sure one hand is always free. Carry items in a backpack. • Never try to do something else, such as reading, as you walk. • While walking, swing both arms from front to back. This will help improve posture and balance. • Do not shuffle or drag your feet as you walk. Make sure you consciously pick up your feet off the floor. • Do not pivot sharply to make a turn. Instead, face forward and make a wider turn. Go slowly while changing positions, and use an assistive device if needed. • While standing, make sure feet are shoulder-width apart. • Avoid shoes with grippy rubber soles, which may get caught and cause you to fall.