Archive · 7 Oct 2026
Why Aging Can Affect Balance and Five Exercises May Help
Balance helps you stay upright when you walk or stand.
As people get older, their muscles may get weaker and their bodies may react more slowly.
Changes in eyesight, the inner ear, joints and how the brain uses information can also make balance harder.
Practicing certain exercises may help build strength and coordination.
These include standing on one leg, walking heel to toe, and standing up from a chair.
Side leg raises and heel raises are also suggested.
Use a sturdy support if needed and begin slowly.
Talk to a doctor about sudden or worsening balance problems, frequent falls, dizziness or unexplained weakness.
Balance can become harder with age as muscles, reflexes, vision, the inner ear and brain processes change.
Joint stiffness and reduced flexibility may also affect posture, walking and stability.
The article recommends single-leg stands, heel-to-toe walking, sit-to-stands, side leg raises and heel raises.
A sturdy chair, countertop or wall can provide support while exercising; start slowly and avoid exercising when tired or dizzy.
Frequent falls, dizziness, unexplained weakness or sudden balance changes warrant medical advice.
- Who
- Older adults experiencing changes in balance.
- What
- The article describes age-related factors that can affect balance and five exercises intended to help improve it.
- When
- As people age; no publication date is provided.
- Where
- Not specified.
- Why
- Age-related changes in muscles, reflexes, vision, the inner ear, brain processing, joints and flexibility can affect stability.
- Possible contributors
- Reduced muscle strength, slower reflexes, vision changes, inner-ear changes, differences in brain processing, joint stiffness and reduced flexibility.
- Exercise 1
- Single-leg stand, using a sturdy chair for support.
- Exercise 2
- Heel-to-toe walking, with support nearby if needed.
- Exercise 3
- Sit-to-stand from a sturdy chair.
- Exercise 4
- Side leg raises while holding a sturdy chair.
- Exercise 5
- Heel raises while holding a chair lightly.
- When to seek advice
- Consult a doctor for frequent falls, dizziness, unexplained weakness or a sudden change in balance.