Better Balance

Harvard Course Overview

Learn step-by-step techniques to improve your balance at any age. Created by Harvard Medical School experts, this Harvard course provides practical guidance to keep you steady and confident.

Call (573) 581-1332 to register.

Why Better Balance Matters

Balance is a fundamental aspect of everyday life that many of us take for granted, until it starts to falter. For millions of Americans, poor balance is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a serious risk factor for falls, injuries, and a decline in quality of life.

At the Audrain County Health Department’s Health and Wellness Academy, we’re dedicated to helping our community maintain or regain confidence and independence by addressing these challenges. Through education, resources, and professional support, the Better Balance course empowers participants with the tools they need to live safer, healthier lives.

The Impact of Poor Balance

Balance is an automatic reflex for most young, healthy adults. However, as we age, physical and sensory changes can make maintaining balance more difficult. Gradual shifts such as weaker muscles, reduced flexibility, slower reflexes, and worsening eyesight can erode stability.

Certain health conditions, like inner ear disorders, neuropathy, and heart rhythm disturbances, can further undermine balance. Additionally, alcohol use and medications that affect the nervous system or blood pressure can exacerbate the problem.

These challenges contribute to startling statistics:

1 in 3 adults over age 65 falls each year.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults.

Even one fall can lead to a downward spiral of reduced mobility, declining strength, and an increased fear of falling. This cycle further increases the risk of falls, leading to greater instability and a diminished quality of life.

Why This Course is Important

The Better Balance course tackles these issues directly by helping participants understand the root causes of poor balance and providing practical solutions to address them. Designed with guidance from Harvard Medical School’s trusted Special Health Report, this program offers evidence-based exercises and strategies developed by experts in aging, mobility, and fitness.

At ACHD, our commitment to Client-First Care ensures that every participant receives personalized support, practical tools, and a welcoming environment to regain confidence in their mobility and independence.

What You’ll Learn

This course provides a comprehensive approach to balance improvement, focusing on both physical and mental aspects of stability. Key topics include:

Understanding the Causes: Explore how aging and specific health conditions affect balance.
Practical Exercises: Learn targeted movements to strengthen legs, improve flexibility, and enhance reflexes.
Body Awareness: Develop skills to recognize environmental hazards and adjust to them effectively.
Building Confidence: Overcome fear of falling and take control of your mobility.

These lessons empower participants to break free from the cycle of instability and embrace a more active, independent lifestyle.

Breaking the Cycle of Instability

Poor balance often leads to a cycle of decreased activity and increasing fear of falls. Many people limit their movements to avoid risks, but this inactivity weakens the muscles needed for stability, reducing mobility even further.

The Better Balance course is designed to interrupt this cycle. Through guided exercises and professional support, participants strengthen their legs, enhance flexibility, and rebuild the confidence to move freely and safely.

The Role of Physical Activity

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. This course emphasizes three critical components of a balanced exercise routine:

Strength Training: Build stronger leg and core muscles to support stability.
Flexibility: Maintain a full range of motion and reduce stiffness in joints and muscles.
Cardiovascular Fitness: Improve overall health, energy levels, and endurance to support daily activities.

By incorporating these elements into their routine, participants not only improve their balance but also enhance their overall physical and mental health.

Empowering Participants Through Knowledge

The Better Balance course goes beyond physical exercises. Participants learn to identify environmental risks, such as uneven surfaces or poor lighting, and adjust their movements to navigate these challenges safely.

Through expert instruction and hands-on practice, participants leave the course with actionable tools to protect their independence and confidence in their mobility.

Improving Quality of Life

Maintaining balance isn’t just about avoiding falls; it’s about preserving the ability to engage fully in the activities you enjoy. Whether it’s playing with grandchildren, gardening, or simply walking through the neighborhood, improved balance can enhance quality of life in countless ways.

The Better Balance course reflects ACHD’s mission to build a healthier, more connected community by addressing the root causes of poor balance and empowering individuals to take control of their well-being.

Join Us

Take the first step toward greater stability, confidence, and independence by enrolling in the Better Balance course. Together, we can create a healthier, more vibrant Audrain County—with you at the heart of our care.