Even as falls are becoming increasingly common in adults age 65 and over, that doesn't mean they're inevitable. Research shows that falls are caused by a variety of factors, many of which can be improved with the help of physical therapy. Your physical therapist can play a big role in helping you maintain or improve your balance as you age.
Let’s take a look at some of the factors and check out some tips to help you get back into balance.
Cause #1 Lower Body Weakness
Without resistance training, we lose muscle mass every year. Weakness in your lower body has been shown to increase your fall risk. A physical therapist can design an exercise program to help you strengthen your legs and lower body safely.
Cause #2 Inactivity
Another reason we lose muscle mass is from inactivity and deconditioning. People who have fallen in the past often have a fear of falling again, which leads them to do less. As their activity levels decrease, they get weaker and the unstable feeling or fear of falling continues to increase.
This downward spiral can be stopped with balance training from a physical therapist to build your confidence on your feet and allow you to become more active. Attending a group exercise class can be a great way to continue building strength and confidence, work on your balance, and meet new friends at the same time. Ask your physical therapist for some local class recommendations.
