Seniors: Top FIVE things most people don't know about balance

[@alabemos]

Excellent video. Wish my doctor would watch it! After having a stroke 19 years ago, I relearned enough balance to get around, but never got back to where I was before. Doctors told me that it was unlikely/impossible that I would regain any more, so I pretty much gave up and accepted that. Now nearing 70, I began losing ground as many seniors do. Thanks for encouraging me to challenge my balance. I've been doing that recently, and I'm seeing improvements already. I'm less likely to fall now than I was six months ago.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Hi! I agree, this is one of the most common things I hear. Many of the neurologists I work with are the opposite, and know full well that people can make progress from a stroke even 20 years afterward. But many docs stick to the narratie that the only prgress you will make is in the first 6 months to one year. Despite quite a bit of studies showing this as a fallacy. I know the propriocetpive exercises I am presenting work! I hope you continue to see progress!

[@chrisdevalcourt648]

After a stroke 20 years ago I too was told pretty much the same thing. I did improve to a point until I got into my 70's and my balance began to decline significantly. I was accepting of that thinking it was age related. This video shows otherwise. I just need to challenge myself more daily!

[@crystalmakaena7328]

I know how you feel I asked my doctor for a prescription for a walker to help me with my balance I don't walk normally but I like to do more walking twice I brought it up to her and the answer is she feels I don't need it this is from a work injury she doesn't want me to rely on assistance devices

[@chandrakanta2961]

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[@gailcraig3373]

@@chandrakanta2961 7:54

[@artsiecrafty4164]

I had to relearn balance 30 years ago. I had major back surgery which was successful, but my balance was terrible. Now, after that horrible virus, I am 74 and have terrible balance. I thought it was hopeless. After listening to you, I realized that I can do it again and I need a walker to help me to get fit. Before the clot virus, I could walk for hours. Now, I barely get around and I fear falling. Since all of our money will soon be stolen by the government, I decided to splurge and get a really good Walker. Thank you.

[@GaryI-u6l]

Doug, teaching Tai Chi to older adults for 15 years now.. I am impressed with the sensible, effective tips and training you offer. My experience like yours is that most seniors can and do regain their mobility and confidence to enjoy the world around them with some dedication and determination. We are including your training in our resource guide... Thank You TaiChiEasyForLife

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Thank you! Tai Chi is so beneficial to seniors and anyone experiencing a decline in balance.

[@richardhathaway2529]

Thank you I believe in angels and you are my angel I was getting depressed about my walking no more I will start my walking program Wednesday 8-30-23. Thanks again

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

thank you!

[@jacquelyns9709]

I got a rollator walker earlier this year (2023). I wish I had gotten it last year. As soon as I got it, I was immediately able to walk better, slightly quicker, and longer. I still don't walk fast but I am able to walk over 1/2 mile now. That's a huge improvement for me. I have been doing both strength and balance exercises. Thanks for all the good remarks about walkers and canes as useful tools. And that using one isn't admitting defeat or "giving up ". Since I live alone I'm cautious about doing things where I might fall. When I stand on one foot, I do hold on to my locked walker. Once I have my balance I ease up on the pressure I am using in my grip. On a good day. I barely make contact and stand for 10 seconds at a time before putting my foot back down. I'm up to 5 reps in one set. When I started, I had a hard time keeping my balance for a whole second so I am making progress.

[@jamesdouglaswhittaker1811]

Sounds very convincing and fully logical. Sound advice

[@manuelatrejo6142]

Thank you Dr. Doug for showing us what to do to improve our balance. Your a blessing

[@Dave-zl2ky]

I am 73 and work out 4 times a week. That always includes balance activities. Thanks for the video.

[@owenhackett3843]

I had given up using salt for various reasons, but the lack of sodium, created major health problems including a week in hospital after passing out twice the same day, and a year before that, being refused my second hernia operation, until i regained my proper sodium level. But the main ongoing issue was my lack of balance, which promptly healed itself after just one day back using salt. God Bless all of us. Owen H.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

so true! Too little sodium is worse than too much (although both can kill you) Gald you figured out what you needed to do!

[@alijordan4141]

Thank you fo r emphasizing that fact about the matter of strength!! I contacted swine flu in 2016. And lost my ability to walk and more. The medical community wanted to have me wear splints an lots of other nonsense. I tried it their way with few goid results. So I went home and used my common sense and just worked at things steadily with some common sense. Even with good results my Dr. was not encouraging. I turned 70 that year. I have no family and my friends are mostly gone. So I have to look after me. It's 7 years later and I'm 77 and doing well. My only real concern is stairs. And I am sitting this channel and two others and they are helping. Don't let anyone tell you what you Can't do. Try anything you Can and at least You will learn from it. I'm Not advocating not listening to medical advice. Just reinforcing that we still have some choices and most of us are still able to search and often find alternatives. Don't give up. Life is more enjoyable when we know we can still be independent in small ways. Good luck everyone!!

[@berylcomar]

My husband died from swine flu. I’m glad you survived

[@bonniehoo4363]

Great advice, must use our common sense n at least research n try out some new ways, thanks for sharing

[@bradstell2146]

Thanks Doug, TBI survivor. The toughest thing I have ever had to go through. Relearning everything, including balance and walking. Keep the videos coming. Blessings, Brad

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Thanks. It is not easy!!

[@bradstell2146]

Anything worthwhile is supposed to be hard. Thanks!

[@millie3811]

I have had 3 falls had hip replacement and broken wrist I used to walk with cane now I use a walker so I can walk everyday it keeps me safe and I do exercises for balance I have two walkers one with wheels when I go out shopping and one without wheels I will not risk another fall I go out with Walkers at 85 I dont want to injure myself any further dont care what anyone thinks Keep walking and keep safe

[@karinajansson8431]

Thank you I lost my balance five years ago and start training your exercise are the best ❤ 🇸🇪

[@upalipannila3398]

Your video gives hope and confidence to people having problems with balance. Thank you.

[@wavefuse]

I am 61 and have noticed my balance slightly slipping away, so I started riding euc’s and bought a $700 pogo stick. I have definitely added and reinforced my muscle memory, and having incredible fun and satisfaction doing it. As dangerous as an EUC can be it is an amazing fun tool for this purpose, as you are continually learning and improving very noticeably. I need next to focus on riding backwards now which is very hard compared to forward riding skills, but I will do it . I also have a hydrofoil yet to conquer. Just wanted to post this to encourage you all, that rewiring your brain is completely doable, very rewarding and can be a lot of fun also. Feel free to respond if you would like to know more. 🙂

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Thanks. I am curious what an EUC is. Pogo sticks and hydrofoils I am familiar with.

[@wavefuse]

@@neurolasticinstitute424 EUC is short for Electric Unicycle, an awesomely fun vehicle to explore with and improve balance skills particularly at very very slow speed, (slower than walking) and on tough and varied challenging terrains. Let me know what you think ? I am very interested in this subject of balance as I don’t see much (zero!) actual focus on it by anyone around me. What are your professional thoughts on pogoing . I have the big green Vurtego , which uses compressed air instead of springs. Very satisfying also, once you get on to it.

[@JPMorgan-ye5pc]

@@neurolasticinstitute424 Hello Dr. Weiss. I too am unfamiliar with the term EUC and the best I could find thru Google is 'Electric Unicycle'. I didn't even know there was such a thing. As for helpful exercises, I followed a group discussion where one man started trying to brush his teeth while standing on one foot. Predictably, he struggled and could only last a few seconds but he says persistence paid off and he now can stand on one foot for nearly a full minute. Makes sense to me. In my prime - a Wednesday afternoon, I think - I doubt I could have done that but it might actually be helpful. It would have the added benefit of improved oral care😜😜

[@johnmurphy-um1tx]

0000😊

[@missgandavlogs5306]

Thanks for sharing And God 💕🙏❤️ Bless U ❣️ Dr Doug ❤️❤️💕 in Jesus Christ ❤️ Name -Cecille

[@crystalmakaena7328]

Thank you for the encouragement I needed to here what said about not being embarrassed using a cane or walker can falling arches prevent your balancing everything say is inspiring❤

[@artlafrana4058]

Thanks great to know. Abscess in the brain and I lost my balance. You give me hope. Getting rehab since 9/23 twice a week but nobody has said it with such clarity.

[@ClairePetersen-p6d]

Usually people who stop walking decline very fast. Wow never heard that before. Keep walking people❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@beeteh2000]

You are an amazing physiotherapist. All rehab specialists including doctors should watch this video. Please carry on producing more of such videos on balance. I am looking for balance and walking gait training for my godson who sustained EPM and walked. He became a disable walking champion after 8 months being unable to sit or walked but with training and determination he walked. When he did walked he entered into a stroke association sponsored walk. He became their disable walking champion. After lockdown 2021 he started to schuffle and then fell and hit his head. Please continue to produce more of your videos on balance and I will be following you diligently. I have subscribed to your channel. I am a KZbinr also.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

thank you!

[@sheliasmith233]

I’m just starting to get my balance back. I’ve been falling for several weeks and months now I’ve diagnosed with COPD.

[@НадіяБойко-и4у]

Thank you, doctor,you give hope and make life better ❤

[@paulhaggard8746]

I'm thankful for this video. It has encouraged me to walk more.

[@leemarie5019]

Thanks so much Doc! Hoping to regain my balance with your videos. God bless.

[@mariehaverty8209]

Love this thank you, me I challenge myself everyday. We need to feel the fear but do it anyway, keep moving. ❤🏃🏿‍♀️

[@abirranartel851]

Balance exercises are designed to enhance overall body stability and coordination. Balance allows you to keep upright whether walking, riding, climbing stairs, or dancing. Even as you become older, it's necessary to undertake activities that enhance your balance. Having good balance might help you avoid injuries. My father's caregiver at silvergaterr was likewise concerned with maintaining a sense of balance.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

thanks!

[@sandyphillips2467]

Brilliant l have not long fallen over and broken my shoulder this video has given me hope I’m 79 and really do not want to feel old I can stand on one leg ok but will give other ones a try thank you so very much Sandy U K😂❤

[@VirginiaRovainen]

12 min The exercises are terrific!

[@giniaa2707]

Really glad I found your channel. Very helpful!

[@khalidjavaid8771]

Really appreciate your information thanks for helping SC

[@rusminahjas9119]

The video is very meaningful to me and it gives me ideas to improve my balance thank you.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Wonderful!

[@Bookhermit]

I'm 62 and my dad is 81 - we both play soccer still. REAL soccer, where collision and falls are normal and expected - when we crash and fall, we get right back up and continue playing. Dad is harder to hurt than most 40-year olds, and I'm even tougher - I play vs elite people in their 20s and 30s every week in recreational drop-in events, and never get hurt.

[@whatthe6532]

Challenge accepted.

[@rcblues]

Thank you!

[@peterdcosta8979]

Very Ecouraging Comforting thank You

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

You are so welcome

[@judydieckmann6024]

Love your messages..

[@AnOlderChristianWoman]

Thank you so much!

[@hestergreen2031]

Thank you for this information

[@dchungmanson]

You video is an eye opener Thank you

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

thank you.

[@GeorgeJaffke]

Great taik Im93 years old and had to go through hemo and radiation which laid me out and I had to startlearning to walk again this was about 2 years ago and I starteed with a walker now I use a cane and just started to use nordic hiking staffs and it seems to be working

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

thanks

[@marcelladipietro4114]

He is great ❤

[@hilaryjackson589]

Great advice

[@iguanaamphibioustruck7352]

I quit coffee, and I have a swing that I can pump, either in a back and forth or elipse. I agree with to challenge your ability to balance. It is sad to see people who are crippled and with a few new ideas, they can become ACTIVE. Our society is dedicated to creating money that we can store for our future we can enjoy without work. But, what if our work and accomplishments are more satisfying that our retirement?

[@m.c.9676]

Interesting thank you!!! ❤

[@crystalmakaena7328]

Thanks I needed to hear that Im 59 I need to use it i dont want ti lose it😢

[@laraoneal7284]

Ty for educating us about balance. 12/7/24. Subbed

[@dessiecoder2116]

Hurt my calf in fall. Blew it off. Favored other leg standing all day and bale is off walking. Who knew, not I. I’m working all leg muscles an balance exercises. Standing on one leg of the calf injured side is getting better already.

[@muhammadbasharat3415]

Thanks for encouraging

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

My pleasure

[@maryloudelossantos1624]

Thank you for sharing video. It's valuable & helpful.

[@RitaDutta-c4e]

Dr Doug I have knee arthritis with swelling and pain.I am 75years can I do other exercises along with this exercise?My pt gave me lots of exercise I am doing all but not getting any result since two months.If give any advice. Thankyou.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Have you tried a stationary bike?

[@galloping3265]

What about water exercises for seniors! You might need a Helper to accompany you, especially in the shower room/entry to pool area.

[@vivabbey7246]

absolutey great and true I do the exercises you suggest At a Council exercise class the Tutor shouted at me you domt need that crutch 0ne only I never went back to that class I walk daily to nearby Park Thank you

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Excellent!

[@vaudyP]

What about triangulation and not being afraid to be off balance. Walking is falling. We are in motion always in managed state of fall and catch. Why are frail women being taught to use upper body press-ups muscle group to support raise and lower. Instead of centripetal force, straight arm bone pivoting leaning triangulation and transverse strength to defy gravity. Engineers use structural design wide base rigid poles, flying buttresses , circular mechanicsto keep things off the ground. I use the wall and doorjambs and propel from one to the other like a bouncing ball. When we ride a bike its the motion that keeps it upright. Do you think there is room for benefits in aged mobility for these ideas?

[@dipakgosai5501]

Excellent vedio sir

[@samkitty5894]

Child will fall many many times learning to walk and balance. Unfortunately after a stroke we become children and have to learn the same skill again...and we will fall, again and again. When we fall, we find our limit. We get up and keep going. My legs feel like 2 bags of sand. I also have drop foot condition and a trick knee. But I keep going...

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

Well said

[@eileenbrophy2547]

A cane or a walker is a tool. It is nothing to be embarrassed about. When we go out in the rain we use an umbrella.

[@pagosabob10]

If you want to increase your balance get a bike and ride! Try track stands!

[@smaragdavolidis9327]

Thanks for the useful advice.😂

[@crystalmakaena7328]

I've gone to a podiatrist she says I have fallen arches Ive always had flat feet its just that ut has fallen beyound flat foot can this cause you to off balance unstable in walking.

[@neurolasticinstitute424]

"flat" or pronated feet can add to instability. If it's severe enough, it can cause you to fall. Hopefully your podiatrist is able to give you custom shoes to allow you to walk?

[@jayapeswanipeswani8316]

🙏

[@chrisd8937]

What if someone has Parkinson's disease; are there any balance programs for them?

[@theotherme4120]

What if you have ALZHEIMERS?

[@geezer303]

👍

[@jimshoe402]

😁😁😁😁😁😁😁

[@muhammadbasharat3415]

I cannot stand at my own. I would àlso try

[@Pollydoidle]

I thought balance came from your ears…or something in your ears

[@cmvamerica9011]

Genetics my friend genetics.😂

[@katharina6865]

Thank you! Great Video!