(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Find yourself grabbing the closest wall or table for steadiness a little too often?

Balance problems are a common part of aging. Older people tend to be less active, and their bodies gradually lose the fine balance skills of youth.

You can take charge and reduce your risk of falling. Precautions like removing trip hazards, turning on lights and installing handrails can make your home safer.

But your daily habits can also contribute to good balance. Try these tips to lower your fall risk in ways you might not expect.

Be more social

Turns out that video chatting with grandchildren can do more than just boost your mood. According to research, people who connect with family and friends are less likely to fall.

Sharing a home with a loved one can also help you stay safe. People who are married or live with someone are more likely to have a fall-prevention plan.

Get better sleep

Grogginess can make you less aware of your surroundings. Aim to get a full night of satisfying sleep to increase alertness and minimize accidental falls.

If you’re tossing and turning because of stress, try “moving meditation” exercises. Yoga, tai chi and Pilates use controlled breathing and guided imagery to help you relax. Be sure to have a chair or wall nearby to hold onto while doing these exercises.

Manage underlying anxiety and depression

Anxiety and depression often occur alongside balance issues. A common reason is that fear of falling causes people to skip activities that bring meaning and joy, like gardening or going for a walk.

Talk to your health care provider about ways to improve your mental and emotional health. Many people benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps change the way you think about your health issues. It can also teach strategies for coping with stress.

Want something a little more physical? Yoga may help quiet the mind and reduce anxiety.

Get moving

If you worry about falling, you may move less — or not at all. But not getting enough physical activity can weaken your muscles and make balance issues worse.

Exercise can go a long way toward fall prevention. Certain activities improve strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. Here are some ideas:

• Walking
• Water workouts
• Dancing
• Tai chi

If you’re not comfortable with exercise, ask your health care provider to refer you to a physical therapist to create a plan that meets your needs.

For any concerns about falling or balance, talk to your doctor or health care team. They can help you develop strategies to feel safer and more confident — and more like yourself.

This information is adapted from “Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance,” edited by Jamie M. Bogle, Au.D., Ph.D., an audiologist at Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona.