Standing on one leg can tell us about our age

Scientists have found we can measure someone's age by getting them to stand on one leg. This shows how well a person can balance, and balance is more difficult as we get older. Balance needs input from vision, hearing and other senses. Good balance means we have a better quality of life.

Researchers tested the balance of people over the age of 50. Each person had to balance for 30 seconds. They did this with their eyes both closed and open. People who stood on their weaker leg showed more about ageing. Researchers said balance was a sign of health. It showed how the body's systems work well together.