Balance training in older adults

Abstract

Falls represent a major public health problem for older people in the USA and abroad. Several factors may contribute to a fall and therefore the identification of risk factors is vital for developing both preventive and treatment programs. One of the most commonly identified risk factors for falling is impaired balance. An individual’s ability to balance depends on sensory (visual, vestibular and somatosensory) input and organization, muscle strength and coordination of activity, attentional capacity, disease, and medication. Research has established that impairment in any one of these factors can contribute to negative balance outcomes. Research also supports the positive effect of multidimensional intervention programs designed to target systems that control the older adult’s balance. An understanding of the systems that control balance is essential if current programs are to be implemented and if effective programs are to be designed in the future to improve balance.