Self-report benefits of Tai Chi practice by older adults

Author(s): Barnhart, H., Wolf, S. L., McNeely, E., Xu, T. S.

Journal/Book: J Gerontol Ser B Psychol Sci. 1997; 52: 1275 K Street NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20005-4006. Gerontological Society Amer. P242-P246.

Abstract: Older persons who are willing to begin exercise programs are often not willing to continue them. At the Atlanta FICSIT (Frailty and injuries: Cooperative Studies of Intervention Techniques) site, individuals aged 70+ were randomized to Tai Chi (TC), individualized balance training (BT), and exercise control education (ED) groups for 15 weeks. In a follow-up assessment 4 months post-intervention, 130 subjects responded to exit interview questions asking about perceived benefits of participation. Both TC and BT subjects reported increased confidence in balance and movement, but only TC subjects reported that their daily activities and their overall life had been affected; many of these subjects had changed their normal physical activity to incorporate ongoing TC practice. The data suggest that when mental as well as physical control is perceived to be enhanced with a generalized sense of improvement in overall well-being, older persons' motivation to continue exercising also increases.

Note: Article Kutner NG, Emory Univ, Sch Med, Ctr Rehabil Med, Dept Rehabil Med, 1441 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta,GA 30322 USA

Keyword(s): FICSIT TRIALS; PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY; EXERCISE; FRAILTY; FALLS; BALANCE; CHUAN

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