Falls and Postural Control in Older Adults: Effects of the Physical Exercise and the Implications for Activities of Daily Living

The risk of falling is associated with aging-related motor and sensory declines. A higher incidence of falls has been observed in individuals over 60 years who are known to have balance problems. The current knowledge regarding the mechanisms involved in the recovery of postural orientation and body equilibrium shows that the main changes occur as individuals become older and in those who are sedentary or are affected by some diseases. Extensive research and preventive measures have been extensively undertaken to gain a comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of falling. Fortunately, older individuals who engage in regular physical activity lead a healthy lifestyle and have a reduced risk and occurrence of falls. This may be attributed to the proper functioning of their postural control system. Recently, public health policies have been adopted by many countries to improve the quality of life of older individuals and reduce the high number of fallers among the adult population.