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Staying Healthy

Watch out for these balance busters

January 1, 2022

Health problems, medications, and environmental hazards can throw off balance and increase your fall risk.

d07dfccd-09ac-4756-963f-b2e50762a4edOur balance wanes as we age, putting us in jeopardy. The problem reflects a mix of issues that set us up for falls, which are a major cause of hip fractures, head injuries, and disability.

The good news is that you can fight back by recognizing and addressing potential balance busters. "Everything we do to maintain our health, alertness, fitness, and mobility will slow the trajectory of our declining balance," explains Dr. Steven Rauch, medical director of the Balance and Vestibular Center at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear.

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About the Author

photo of Heidi Godman

Heidi Godman, Executive Editor, Harvard Health Letter

Heidi Godman is the executive editor of the Harvard Health Letter. Before coming to the Health Letter, she was an award-winning television news anchor and medical reporter for 25 years. Heidi was named a journalism fellow … See Full Bio
View all posts by Heidi Godman

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