Seniors should try basic balance exercises to begin building their defenses against dangerous falls.

Many balance exercises are very simple to do – you can do them in your living room! To start, hold onto a table, chair, or doorway to help you. You can also ask someone to spot you. As you progress, hold on with only one hand, and then with a finger, and then hands-free. For people particularly steady on your feet, you too can challenge your balance by trying these exercises with your eyes closed. Only do what you are comfortable doing – there is no sense in falling in your attempts to prevent a fall, after all. Basic balance exercises include walking heel-to-toe, raising and lowering yourself in a chair, and single leg stands. The details of each exercise are listed below.