Balance plays an important role in everyday life, whether you’re carrying a cuppa and a slice of cake, tiptoeing around a sleeping grandchild, or making your way to the bathroom at night. Good balance helps us stay steady and prevent falls with nearly every move we make.
But how do you know when it’s time to get help? Asking yourself these three simple questions can provide some guidance as to whether you should seek help to improve your balance.
- Have I had a fall, slip, trip, or near miss in the past year?
- Do I feel unsteady when standing or walking?
- Am I worried about falling?
If you answered yes to any of these, it may be time to take a closer look at your balance.
Changes in eyesight, hearing, or episodes of dizziness can also affect your balance. Our vision and inner ear health play a large part in helping us stay upright. And how much we move, or don’t move, can make a real difference.
If you’ve noticed any changes, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor. Annual eye and hearing checks are important, too. For extra support, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, or personal trainers who work with older adults can help you build your balance, mobility, strength, and confidence to maintain your independence and good health.
You can view some simple exercises to help you Stay On Your Feet® with our Build Your Balance video. Complete these exercises regularly and you’ll be making a good start to improving your balance.