Most people acknowledge a balance problem only after they experience a fall. Understanding potential signs of balance problems will help keep you from becoming a statistic. If you identify with 1 or more of following statements you may have a balance problem. If you find 4 or more to be true for you, you are statistically at higher risk for falling.
- I have a tendency to touch walls/furniture when I walk around my house.
- I feel unsteady when I need to got to the bathroom at night.
- I feel imbalanced when I shower and/or wash my hair, especially when I close my eyes.
- I feel I need to look down all the time to keep my balance..
- I feel I must walk much slower than my normal speed.
- I avoid waking on uneven surfaces like grass, sand or ramps.
- I have a lot of trouble negotiating curbs or stairs.
- I feel my body becoming very tense when I am in a standing position or while walking
- I feel uncomfortable about my balance when I am in crowds, walking down grocery store aisles, or when getting on to an escalator.
- I feel a sense of imbalance after moving my head when I am standing.
- I avoid moving my head when I am standing or walking.
- I am embarrassed at times, and feel I look like I am “drunk”.
- I am afraid to be home alone.
- I feel an overall decreased sense of self-confidence.
