Don't Let Falls Steal Your Memory! How Balance Benefits Your Brain at Any Age
- Cathy Bauer
- Oct 29, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: May 17, 2024
Balance is the ability to maintain your body's center of mass over your base of support. It is essential for everyday activities such as walking, running, and standing. But did you know that balance is also important for your brain health?
Why balance is important.
Your brain and balance are closely linked. The cerebellum, the part of your brain responsible for balance, also plays a role in cognitive function, memory, and learning. When you have good balance, your brain can focus on other tasks, such as thinking and problem-solving.
What having good balance does for the brain.
Having good balance benefits cognitive function in a number of ways:
Improved memory: Studies have shown that people with better balance have better memory. This is because balance requires the brain to process information from the inner ear, eyes, and muscles. This process helps to strengthen the connections between brain cells, which can improve memory.
Improved learning: Balance is also important for learning. When you are able to maintain your balance, you are better able to focus and pay attention. This can lead to improved learning and academic performance.
Reduced risk of falls: Falls are a major risk factor for brain injury. Good balance can help to reduce your risk of falls and protect your brain from injury.
How to maintain proper balance as you get older.
Balance naturally declines with age. However, there are a number of things you can do to maintain proper balance as you get older:
Exercise regularly: Exercise is important for maintaining overall health and well-being, including balance. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Strength training also helps maintain muscle mass that will help you with balance and reduce your risk as falls as you age.
Do balance exercises: Balance exercises specifically target the muscles and nerves involved in balance. There are a number of different balance exercises you can do, such as standing on one leg, walking heel-to-toe, and yoga.
Challenge your balance: Try new activities that challenge your balance, such as dancing, tai chi, or rock climbing.
Daily exercises for good balance.
Here are a few daily exercises you can do to improve your balance:
Single-leg stand: Stand on one leg for 30 seconds, then switch legs. Repeat 3-5 times on each leg.
Heel-to-toe walk: Walk heel-to-toe for 10 steps, then turn around and walk back. Repeat 2-3 times.
Sit / Stand: Standing up and sitting down from a chair without using your hands. Repeat 2-3 times.
Tree pose: Stand with your feet together and shift your weight to your right foot. Bend your left knee and place the bottom of your left foot on the inner part of your right thigh. Keep your hips square and your core engaged. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch legs. Repeat 3-5 times on each leg.
Tai chi: Tai chi is a form of exercise that is known to improve coordination and balance. There are many different tai chi classes available, and many on YouTube, so you can find one that is right for you.
If you are not steady on your feet, it is important to have someone there to spot you as you are doing these exercises. This can help to prevent you from falling and injuring yourself.
If you don't have anyone to spot you, you can still do these exercises safely by taking some precautions:
Start slowly and gradually increase the difficulty as you get stronger.
Do the exercises on a soft surface, such as a carpet or mat.
Use a chair or other support for balance if needed.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid doing the exercises near stairs or other hazards.
Additional tips for maintaining good balance:
Wear supportive shoes.
Keep your home well-lit and free of clutter.
Get regular eye exams.
Get regular hearing exams (issues with your inner ear can cause balance issues).
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
If you have a medical condition that affects your balance, talk to your doctor about how to manage your condition safely.
Balance is important for both your physical health and your brain health. By following the tips above, you can maintain proper balance as you get older and reduce your risk of falls and brain injury. Remember to do these activities with a friend or near a wall or chair in case you need to stabilize yourself quickly. We are all aging, let's make sure we keep our bodies healthy and strong. Doing so will also help our minds.
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