Tai Chi intervention for older adults using assistive devices in a senior living community: A pilot study

Aim: To examine whether a 6-form Tai Chi (TC) programme is effective in improving balance among older adults using an assistive device (walker or cane) for daily mobility. Method: Seventeen qualified subjects participated in a 12-week study (3 times a week, 60 minutes each session). The outcomes measured were the Fall Efficacy Scale (FES), Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA), Single Leg Stance (SLS), and Chair Stand Test (CST). Findings: Thirteen subjects completed the whole programme and performed significantly better on the post test than the pre test in FES (P=.001), POMA (P=.001), and SLS (P=.001), but no difference identified in CST (P=.131) after Bonferroni adjustment. Conclusion: These results indicate that the 6-form TC programme can benefit older assistive device users by reducing fear of falling and improving balance, but offers no clear improvement in lower extremity strength.