HEALTH Q&A: Losing balance
Q I am 62 years old and recently started having balance problems. Is this a normal part of aging?
A While poor balance is not a normal parts of aging, changes occur as we age that can affect overall stability and risk for falls. Visual acuity, depth perception, contrast sensitivity and proprioception (knowing where our body parts are in space) are just a few functions that decline variably with age. Muscle weakness, disease(s), and medications also affect stability. All of these factors may contribute to feeling dizzy and/or falling. The (very good) news is that much of this can be corrected with the help of physical therapists, eye care professionals, good medical care and of course maintaining an active lifestyle.
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