Balance Problems As We Age: 4 Warning Signs Your Health Could Be at Serious Risk by Brooks Rehabilitation

An alarming number of people fail to recognize the warning signs of balance problems until it’s too late. If you consider yourself uncoordinated or are constantly bumping into things, you might suffer from something more severe than clumsiness: poor balance.

“As we age, the three sensory systems that impact balance – the visual system, somatosensory system and vestibular system – can deteriorate, which results in balance issues,” says Ninoska Alvarez, PT, MSPT, a physical therapist at Brooks Rehabilitation who has specialized in balance and balance disorders since 2006. “Whenever one or more than one of these systems no longer functions as well as it once did, balance deficits can arise.”

Here are four symptoms you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Relying on External Support

Using railings, furniture, people or other items to help you move around more than usual could indicate that you have trouble maintaining your balance independently.

2. Feeling Disoriented in the Dark

If you struggle to navigate your environment in the dark (for example, when using the bathroom in the middle of the night), your body might be trying to tell you that your balance systems aren’t working as they should.

3. Feeling Unsteady With Eyes Closed

Unsteadiness when standing or completing a task with your eyes closed (for example, when washing your hair in the shower) could indicate that your balance is too reliant on visual input and that one or more of your balance systems are not functioning correctly.

4. Vertigo or an Increase in Tripping

Vertigo and dizziness can be symptoms of an underlying issue affecting balance, such as problems with the inner ear or vestibular system. An increase in tripping or stumbling may be a sign of poor balance, potentially due to muscle weakness, neurological issues or other factors affecting balance. These also increase the risk of falls.

Please speak to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Alvarez highlights two of the biggest ways you can help prevent future balance issues:

• Multi-modal exercise: While exercising is fantastic, multi-modal exercise training is even better. Alvarez says that by engaging in diverse physical activities and targeting cardio, flexibility, mobility and strength as opposed to just one form of exercise, you can ensure your body, balance and sensory systems are more resilient as you age.

• Fall-proof your home: Unintentional falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries across every age group, from infants to older adults, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data. Alvarez recommends fall prevention best practices and fall-proofing your home, for example, by utilizing nightlights and removing environmental hazards such as throw rugs or electrical cords. In addition, always try to keep an eye on pets when moving around, as tripping on dogs or cats can result in a fall.

“It's essential to understand that balance can always improve,” says Alvarez. “Please seek out help If you notice your balance is deteriorating before it results in a fall and potential injury.”

Don't let balance issues sneak up on you. If you're experiencing any of the four warning signs, it's time to take action.

Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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