Falls are the most frequent cause of injury-related morbidity, mortality, and health care spending among the older population and constitute a major public health problem. Research indicates that impaired balance, functional mobility, and fear of falling are associated with increased risk for falling. Structured participation can improve balance and reduce the risk for falls. An alternative form of structured exercise is T'ai Chi. T'ai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise that involves integration of the mind and body in repetitive, slow, gentle circular movements, and changes in the center of gravity. Guided by Orem's self care theory and motor learning theory, the purposes of this study were to ascertain: (a) if there were improvements in pre- to postexercise measures of balance, functional mobility, fear of falling, and self-assessed health among older women who participated in structured T'ai Chi classses for three months; and (b) what other benefits were identified by the participants. A single-factor within-subjects design allowed the subjects to serve as their own controls. Forth-five women aged 72 to 96 years completed the study. The results, based on stepwise multiple regression analysis, indicated statistically significant improvements in scores for balance (p<.001), functional mobility (p<.05), and fear of falling (p<.001). Self-reported benefits included reduction in pain from fibromyalgia, better blood pressure control, reduced insomnia, and decreased urinary incontinence.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe outcomes of T'ai Chi exercise participation by older women. 2. Discuss self-reported health benefits.
Keywords: Treatment Outcomes, Elderly
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.