Balance is often taken for granted—until it starts to decline. But did you know that your balance is directly linked to both heart health and brain function as you age?
In a recent article from the American Heart Association, Dr. Kelley Gabriel, professor of epidemiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, emphasized the importance of this overlooked skill:
“Balance is important because it’s one of the attributes that allows you to do physical activity. Everything you do involves some level of balance—standing at the sink, mopping, walking the dog. It’s embedded into almost every single activity.”
And she’s absolutely right. Balance is foundational to your daily life—and to your long-term well-being.
A 2024 Swedish study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association looked at 4,927 healthy 70-year-olds. Participants had their balance tested using a balance board. After five years, researchers found that problems with lateral balance—the ability to stay stable while shifting weight side to side—were linked to a significantly higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
That’s not all. Two additional studies—one in the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease and another in the Journals of Gerontology Series A—found that poor balance was also associated with a higher risk of dementia in older adults.
What Does This Mean for Us?
It means that improving your balance isn’t just about fall prevention. It’s about protecting your heart, your brain, and your independence. And the good news? It doesn’t take much time.
Here are two simple, proven ways to work on your balance every day:
Walk backwards for several minutes. Try it in a hallway or along any wall where you can easily keep your hand there for support until your balance improves.
Stand on one leg while brushing your teeth. Not only will you get twice-daily balance practice, but you’ll also have the sink or countertop nearby if you need it.
Safe Balance Practice You Can Start Today
In today’s video, I’m sharing a short video with a couple of ideas for how you can practice balance safely at home —without fancy equipment or risk of injury.
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Best of Health,
Kathi
