Director of Retirees

Mark Harris

June 5, 2026

Hello fellow Retiree’s

As we transition into retirement (or are already retired), we often focus on the financial aspect of our new lives. We plan budgets, organize schedules and or map out travel destinations. However, there is another critical component that directly protects our freedom and lifestyle: it’s our physical balance.

Maintaining our balance is the ultimate invisible support system, which we often neglect. It is what allows us to do things like hike trails, play on the floor with grandchildren, and live independently in our own homes. But, because our balance gradually changes as we age, we often do not think about it until we slip or fall.

The good news is that balance is not a fixed trait, it’s a skill. Just like playing an instrument, learning a new language or playing sports, your balance can be trained, strengthened, and improved at any age.

To improve your stability (balance), it helps to understand how it works. Your brain relies on three things to help keep you upright: your vision, your inner ear system, and the sense of where your feet and limbs are.

As we age, these three systems can experience minor setbacks. The muscles in our legs and core naturally lose density, making it slightly harder to recover from a sudden slip or fall. By practicing balance exercises, you are "rewiring" these pathways, sharpening your reflexes and building the physical strength required to stay upright.

You do not need an expensive gym membership or specialized equipment to build a-solid foundation. You can turn making your daily coffee-brewing routine into a personal training session using these three simple moves. Always keeping your hands a few inches above a sturdy kitchen counter for safety.

• The Single-Leg Stand: Lift one foot slightly off the floor and balance on the other leg for 10 to 20 seconds. Switch sides. This strengthens the stabilizing muscles in your ankles and hips. Repeat this two to three times daily.

• Heel-to-Toe Walking: Imagine walking a tightrope. Place the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the opposite foot. Take 10 steps forward along the edge of your counter, then 10 steps back. Repeat this two to three times daily.

• The Sit-to-Stand: Sit in a sturdy chair. Without using your hands to push off, stand up completely, then slowly lower yourself back down. Repeat this 5 to 10 times daily (helps to build thigh and glute strength).

Besides exercising, changing your lifestyle will pay (show) big rewards. Ensure your footwear offers firm arch support and non-slip soles. Take a few minutes to inventory your home: secure loose throw rugs, clear walkways of electrical cords or toys, and add nightlights to the hallways for those midnight trips to the bathroom.

By investing just five minutes a day into your stability, you are directly impacting your future independence. Stay proactive and stay moving.

Mark Harris – State Director of Retirees