- Joined
- Sep 10, 2006
- Messages
- 4,650
You have to train to maintain your balance system as you age, just like you have to do aerobic training and strength training. Use it or lose it.
Maintaining your balance requires 3 systems:
1) your visual system
2) your vestibular system
3) your proprioceptive system (proper sensation of muscle and joint position and reaction)
Lose one of the systems...now you are really at risk and have to compensate with the other two. Loss of two systems... even higher risk.
This is why dark environments are especially dangerous as we age. Don't underestimate the need for night lights!
You can train these systems with specific balance training programs. Those at high fall risk should do so with a physical therapist until able to train safely on their own.
If you are still in great shape and can safely do balance exercises on your own, make sure you add balance training to your regular exercise program now and do it for life. Again, use it or lose it!
Maintaining your balance requires 3 systems:
1) your visual system
2) your vestibular system
3) your proprioceptive system (proper sensation of muscle and joint position and reaction)
Lose one of the systems...now you are really at risk and have to compensate with the other two. Loss of two systems... even higher risk.
This is why dark environments are especially dangerous as we age. Don't underestimate the need for night lights!
You can train these systems with specific balance training programs. Those at high fall risk should do so with a physical therapist until able to train safely on their own.
If you are still in great shape and can safely do balance exercises on your own, make sure you add balance training to your regular exercise program now and do it for life. Again, use it or lose it!