You’re lucky if you don’t know this feeling: upright one minute and the next, down on the ground. For anyone who’s taken a fall, you know you’re fortunate to get away with just a few bruises or scrapes. But for many, a fall becomes a critical and even life-defining event: either because of the broken bones that result or due to a broken spirit that has you perpetually worried about another fall. In fact, this Fear of Falling can put you at further risk for another fall. For an overview of the critical nature of falls in your older years, steady yourself and read here.

New research has emerged that underscores the value of exercise in your later years to diminish your risk of falling. A steady and consistent exercise program that requires you to stand and strengthen your balance can be essential to keeping you upright and off the ground. For example, Tai Chi is a terrific way to improve your balance and strength. For some helpful beginner videos of Tai Chi moves you can practice at home, start here. There are also plenty of fall prevention classes around if you know where to find them. Take a look at the suggestions from the National Council on Aging here or the videos and class opportunities through the Fall Stop program here.

But if you do feel yourself beginning to fall, learning the best way to fall can make a real difference- and can limit your injuries. To learn about the best way to hit the ground, take a look at the insights and advice from Dr. Daphne Miller’s recent Washington Post article.