If keeping your balance is a problem, a popular form of exercise may help, according to a local university.

Falls can be a real problem for older people. It can also make life harder for younger family members who have to take care of loved ones when they're hurt.

Researchers at Temple University said yoga could be the cure.

Researchers at Temple studied 24 women over 65 years old.

Each participated in a beginner's yoga class.

After nine weeks, the women could walk faster, had increased flexibility, and had improved single-leg stance.

They reported feeling more confident when walking or balancing.

The women participated in a form of yoga that uses props.

Researchers said larger studies are needed, but improving balance and stability through yoga could help reduce the risk of falling because of the way yoga improves the function of the foot.

Women in the study said they feel more centered and are more likely to stick with yoga over other forms of exercise.

Researchers said preventing falls is just one of the benefits of yoga.

Some said back and knee pain were gone by the end of the program. Others said they have a better outlook on life since taking the classes.

Doctors said having something to look forward to makes a difference in quality of life.