Older adults excercising in a park
Table of Contents

    Module 2: Strength and Balance

    We all experience changes in the ways that we move as we grow older. Weaker muscles and balance issues lead to many of these changes and contribute to your risk for a fall. Read on to see what steps you can take to become stronger and steadier.

    Many older adults try to prevent falls by being careful or supporting themselves while walking by holding onto furniture or the walls. Being careful is always a good idea, but increasing your strength and improving your balance can really help reduce your fall risk.

    It's natural to lose muscle mass and strength with age. We may also experience problems with balance because of the medications we take, the alcohol we drink, medical conditions, and inner-ear problems. Some signs of strength and balance issues include:

    • Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
    • Steadying yourself by holding onto furniture or walls.
    • Difficulty getting up from a chair without using your arms.
    • Using a walker or cane.

    You have room to improve your strength and balance if you are experiencing any of these issues. Talk to your healthcare provider. Your provider can help you decide if you should see a physical therapist. They may also check your strength and balance using simple tests like watching how you walk, seeing how you get up from a chair, or asking you to stand in certain ways.

    Steps You Can Take
    • Read the Physical Therapy module to learn more about how it can help you with strength and balance.
    • Read the Exercise module to find out what kind of exercises can help improve strength and balance.
    • Talk to your healthcare provider to see if physical therapy would help you improve your strength and balance.
    Learn More