Why should balance problems never be ignored as 'normal aging'?

What causes balance to decline with age?

• Gradual loss of inner ear hair cells and balance nerve fibers
• Reduced sensation in the feet and ankles, sometimes from neuropathy
• Loss of leg strength and slower stepping reactions
• Vision changes, and medicines that cause dizziness or drowsiness
• BPPV, which is more common with age and often goes unrecognized

Why do falls matter so much?

Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury death in adults 65 and older¹. Even a fall without injury can start a cycle of fear, less activity and weaker balance. World falls guidelines recommend assessing balance and gait in older adults and offering tailored exercise when risk is found³.

How do you assess fall risk?

We use standardized tests from the CDC STEADI program, such as the Timed Up and Go and the 30-second chair stand⁴, plus BioSway computerized balance testing, infrared goggle screening for BPPV and a review of your falls history, footwear and home. That shows which systems need training.

Is fall prevention physical therapy covered by Medicare in Cumming and Alpharetta?

Yes, when it is medically necessary. We are in-network with Traditional Medicare at both clinics and provide balance and fall prevention training in 60-minute, one-on-one visits, and our Cumming clinic has a Zero-Fall overhead harness for safely practicing harder challenges. We are out of network with Medicare Advantage plans. We serve Suwanee, Sugar Hill, Johns Creek, Milton and Forsyth County.

Where can I get help in Alpharetta, Cumming and nearby?

Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPS and our team of physical therapists see patients from Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, Suwanee, Sugar Hill, Buford, Duluth and Forsyth County at two North Atlanta clinics. Every visit is 60 minutes, one-on-one, and urgent appointments are available within 48 hours. We are in-network with Traditional Medicare, BCBS / Anthem and Tricare, and offer a $129 rate per visit for self-pay and out-of-network plans. Not sure where to start? Take the free symptom self-check, or visit our Alpharetta clinic or Cumming clinic page.

Related care

Related questions

• How does an overhead harness system take away the fear of falling during balance rehab?An overhead harness system holds you securely from a ceiling-mounted track while you walk, turn and practice balance…2 min read · Patient question
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• Does Traditional Medicare cover balance and fall prevention physical therapy in Georgia?Yes, when the therapy is medically necessary. Traditional Medicare covers outpatient physical therapy for problems…2 min read · Patient question
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References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Older Adult Falls: Facts and Stats. Accessed October 2026.
2. Sherrington C, et al. Exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2019.
3. Montero-Odasso M, et al. World guidelines for falls prevention and management for older adults: a global initiative. Age and Ageing. 2022.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. STEADI: Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries.

Answered by Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPSDoctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Vestibular Specialist and one of the few certified Therapeutic Pain Specialists in North Atlanta, with 15+ years of outpatient care. About Dr. Patel

This answer is general education, not a diagnosis or a substitute for an examination. If you have new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. Call 911 for sudden severe dizziness with trouble speaking, weakness, numbness, double vision or a severe headache.