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However, chronic alcohol abuse can lead to irreversible disequilibrium that can have lasting negative effects on your
balance. In addition to alcohol and drugs, certain medications can also cause dizziness, vision problems or
lightheadedness, which all play a role in your sense of balance. While sometimes a single medication causes
imbalances, the combination of multiple drugs taken together are more commonly the issue.

But external substances aren’t the only cause of balance loss. As we age, balance becomes more of an issue as our
critical systems begin to weaken. According to Dr. Nathan Wei, director of the Arthritis Treatment Center in Frederick,
Md., the aging process is typically associated with visual impairment, inner ear problems, cerebellar (posterior brain)
issues, muscle weakness or peripheral neuropathy. And unfortunately for the elderly population, these systems all play a
critical role in your body’s ability to stay vertical.

Because older people are more likely to take medication to control health problems, this group is doubly at risk for poor
balance from sources they both can and cannot control. Dr. Alashari explains that decreased agility can interact with the
cumulative effect of chronic medical illnesses and the side effects of medications, producing an overall decrease in one’s
sense of balance. Luckily, there are things you can do to improve your sense of balance for the long haul, and they can
be done by anyone, regardless of age or ability. As a physical therapist, DeGroot creates environments to help patients
through individualized exercise programs that address specific balance deficits.

Dr. Alashari cites diabetes and hypertension as being common conditions that cause poor balance, so it’s important to
manage the symptoms that come with these illnesses. “Tips to improve balance in the long run include maintaining tight
glucose control for patients who have diabetes and good blood pressure control in patients with hypertension,” he said.
He also urges the importance of maintaining compliance with all medications and reporting any symptoms to your doctor
such as dizziness, lightheadedness or nausea.

Dr. Wei recommends paying attention to visual deficits that can impact your spatial awareness compared to objects
around you. Studies have shown that as vision decreases, balance scores begin to decline, so it’s important to address
and correct visual impairments as they arise. Working on your balance might not be top of list until it has become a
serious issue, and by that point, you could be on the ground. But improving your equilibrium can be easy by simply
adding balance exercises to your workout regimen routine and paying attention to potential sources of balance
impairments.

“Those who think they have no time for bodily exercise will sooner or later find time for illness.” Edward Staley

SUNSHINE LADY

Adeline Seakwood
575.0906 or
adherb@comcast.net

Call Adeline if you know of
anyone who is ill, has lost a
loved one, or is just in need of a
Rick Kilmer word of encouragement.

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