Study Links Inability, to Pass Simple Balance Test , With Increased Risk of Early Death .
'The Independent' reports that lacking
the balance to stand on one leg in older age has
been linked to an increased risk of earlier death.
A new study by the 'British Journal
of Sports Medicine' focuses on the
association between balance and mortality.
The study found that middle-aged people
and senior citizens are more likely to die within
a decade if they are unable to pass a mobility test.
The test requires participants
to stand on one leg
for at least 10 seconds.
Other studies have linked an inability
to balance on one leg to an increased risk
of stroke and the onset of dementia.
According to the authors of the study,
a standardized test for balance is not included
in health checks of middle-aged people or seniors.
The research found that an inability
to pass the mobility test was linked to
an 84% greater risk of death from any cause.
Standing on each leg for about a minute
three times a day can help to improve
balance and hip bone mineral density.
According to scientists, stronger hip bones
also make people less likely to fall
and suffer injuries like fractured bones.
The team says that their work, “provides rapid and objective feedback for the patient
and health professionals regarding static balance."