Loss of balance is common in certain medical conditions that are associated with aging. This can contribute to falls and difficulty
walking. Therefore, it is important for older adults to learn and consistently perform simple exercises that will improve their
balance skills and help them feel more confident in their activities of daily living.
Balance exercises are specific activities that help build lower extremity (leg) muscle strength as well as improve balance. Balance
exercises are particularly beneficial in the older adult as they have been shown to help prevent falls. Each year, U.S. hospitals have
300,000 admissions for broken hips, and falling is often the cause of those fractures. Balance exercises can help an older adult stay
independent by helping avoid disabilities that may result from falling.