Balance exercises for the elderly

One in three people over the age of 65 falls several times a year, with half injuring themselves in the process. Good balance and strong muscles are key to preventing falls. By the time we turn 80, we lose up to 40% of our muscle mass, with muscle being converted into fat. Regular exercise that differs from your daily routine in some way helps slow this muscle breakdown. 

Regular exercise is much easier if you enjoy it. Many people are motivated by music. Dancing also helps improve balance and trains different muscle groups. Doing it regularly – especially with a partner – has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and mental health because it protects against social isolation and promotes self-confidence. Studies show that regular dancing significantly improves attention, alertness, balance and flexibility. And dancing isn’t only for young people – older people can also rediscover the joy of dancing from their younger years or find a new passion.

Accompanied by swinging flapper music from the 1920s, teachers Monika Bühlmann and Claudia Jenny show you how to improve your balance through dance. In three parts, the dance duo take you through exercises that mobilise the hands and feet, improve your sense of balance, and train your coordination and circulation. In the final part of the video, Monika Baumann and Claudia Jenny show you the basic steps of the tango. 

Daily dancing? Just do it! Claudia Jenny recommends: “Dance lightly from the living room to the kitchen when you hear an uplifting tune on the radio. Dance a waltz as you move around with your vacuum cleaner or swing your hips when you’re brushing your teeth.” The opportunities for dancing are endless!