Changes in Balance: A Fact Sheet on Aging

Balance Changes:

Slowing of body movements
Dizziness may occur
Stiffening of body joints
Medication

Balance difficulties may produce these behaviors:

Poor posture – tilt forward
Dizziness
Holding to immobile objects or wall when walking
Shuffling gait

Actions you may take:

Support on side which needs support
Assist in standing – use body as lever
Teach person to grasp you for support
Check for hazards – carpet edges, lamps, cords, etc.
Provide handrails on walls, etc.
Patience

Adapted from Sensitizing People to the Processes of Aging: The In-Service Educator’s Guide by Marvin Ernst and Herbert Shore, Dallas Geriatric Research Institute, 1977. Distributed by: Judith L. Warren, Ph.D., Extension Program Leader and Professor and Extension Gerontology Specialist, Family Development and Resource Management, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas. 1995.

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Last updated: 16 September, 2009

Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin.