Reflexes Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli in the environment. Examples include quickly slamming on your car brakes when a child runs into the street, moving out of the way quickly when something falls accidentally, or bending quickly to swat a mosquito. As you age, your reaction time slows and regaining your balance following a sudden movement may be difficult. This decreased ability to control your movements can result in a fall. To improve body control, maintain an active lifestyle.
Activity maintains muscle tone and flexibility and slows bone loss.
Keeping up the strength in your arms and legs can go a long way to improving how well you move. Talk to your doctor about activities that are safe and beneficial for you, keeping in mind your individual situation. If you have an illness that affects your circulation, sensation, or mobility or take medications such as blood pressure pills, heart medicine, diuretics, sleeping pills, sedatives, antidepressants, muscle relaxers, or tranquilizers, you may have symptoms of confusion, dizziness, disorientation, and slowed reflexes. Ask your doctor if there is a relationship between the symptoms you are having and the medicines you are taking. Use of multiple medicines can increase your risk for falling.