Falls are the leading cause of injury and death for seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that a senior falls every second each day. There are many reasons a senior might fall, but experts suggest that one of the best ways to prevent falls is to improve balance. If you\u2019ve noticed that your parent\u2019s balance seems a bit off, the first thing you should do is talk to their doctor to determine if there is an underlying medical problem. If the doctor determines that there is no medical condition present that is causing your parent to lose balance, the best way to improve your parent\u2019s balance is through exercise. The National Institute on Aging at the National Institutes for Health recommends the following exercises for improving balance.<\/p>\n
Practice Standing on One Foot<\/strong><\/p>\n This exercise is an easy one to practice at home because all it requires is a sturdy kitchen chair. To do the exercise:<\/p>\n Walk Heel-to-Toe<\/strong><\/p>\n This exercise is a little more difficult and may require some help from a family caregiver or an elder care provider.<\/p>\n If it is difficult for your parent to balance while doing this, they can place a hand on the shoulder or arm of an elder care provider. Over time the exercise will get easier and your parent won\u2019t need help.<\/p>\n Balance Walk<\/strong><\/p>\n This exercise looks a little more like a march than a walk, and it may require the help of an elder care provider when your parent first tries it.<\/p>\n Again, an elder care provider can walk beside your parent and aid their balance until the exercise gets easier.<\/p>\n Tai Chi<\/strong><\/p>\n Tai chi is an ancient Chinese form of exercise that uses slow motions and focused thoughts. Studies Improving your parent\u2019s balance will take some work, but it\u2019s worth the effort since it could mean the difference between staying healthy and disability or death. Your parent\u2019s elder care provider can encourage them to work on their balance exercises each day or drive them to a tai chi class.<\/p>\n Sources Try tai chi to improve balance, avoid falls<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n
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\nindicate that tai chi can reduce incidences of seniors falling by 45 percent. Tai chi is effective in reducing falls because it helps strengthen the legs while also improving range of motion, reflexes, and flexibility. Tai chi can be done by people of any age, so even if your parent is well into their 80s, they can take up the practice. You may have to spend some time looking for a tai chi class in your community. Once you find one, your parent\u2019s elder care provider can drive them to class.<\/p>\n
\nhttps:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/media\/releases\/2016\/p0922-older-adult-falls.html
\nhttps:\/\/go4life.nia.nih.gov\/exercises\/balance<\/p>\n