Caregivers are keenly aware that falls are a leading cause of injury to seniors. Each year, one in three Americans over the age of 65 suffers a fall. Researchers have found doing something as simple as raising one leg and balancing while brushing your teeth can improve balance and reduce the risk of falling. It makes total sense.  In addition to the physical act of balancing, the brain must multi-task by brushing teeth and balancing, all of which is good for brain health. And there’s an easy balance check in place if necessary. If a person begins to lose their balance, they can rely on the sink or bathroom counter for immediate support. The routine may be as simple as standing on the left leg in the morning during brushing and then the right leg in the evening. Physical therapists, physiatrists and fitness experts have repeatedly proven that much of the sense of balance can be preserved and even restored through exercises such as these that require no special equipment or training.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/08/health/08brod.html?_r=1