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