J Korean Acad Nurs.  2008 Aug;38(4):620-628. 10.4040/jkan.2008.38.4.620.

Effects of Tai Chi Exercise Program on Physical Fitness, Fall related Perception and Health Status in Institutionalized Elders

• Liu MR
• So H

• KMID: 820116
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.2008.38.4.620

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose was to identify the effects of a Tai Chi exercise program on physical fitness, fall related perception and health status among institutionalized elderly. METHODS: A quasi-experimental research was carried out with a nonequivalent control group pretest-posttest design. There were 23 subjects in the experimental group and 24 in the control group. The data was gathered by structured questionnaires about fall related perception, and health status. Physical fitness was measured by an exercise therapist with a blind principle. RESULTS: At the completion of the 12 weeks Tai Chi exercise program, flexibility (F=4.50, p=.00), and ability to balance (F=3.27, p=.00) had increased significantly. Fall related perception showed significant improvement in the fear of falling (F=-3.52, p=.00). Physical functioning (F=3.38, p=.00), role limitationphysical (F=2.67, p=.01), role limitation-emotional (F=2.47, p=.02). and general health (F=3.88, p=.00) in health status showed significant differences between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The study findings revealed Tai Chi exercise as a useful nursing intervention for elderly that enhances flexibility and balance, decreases fall related perception and also increases the health status. Further research is warranted to compare the potential effects of Tai Chi exercise and its health benefits from other types of exercise or martial arts.

Keyword

Tai Chi; Physical fitness; Fall; Health status

MeSH Terms

Accidental Falls/*prevention & control
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Community Health Centers
Female
Health Behavior
*Health Status
Humans
Male
*Physical Fitness
Pliability
Program Development
Questionnaires
Range of Motion, Articular
*Tai Ji