An evaluation of the effects of Tai Chi exercise on physical function among older persons: A randomized controlled trial

This study was designed to determine whether a 6-month Tai Chi exercise pro gram can improve self-reported physical functioning limitations among healt hy, physically inactive older individuals. Ninety-four community residents ages 65 to 96 (M age = 72.8 years, SD = 5.1) volunteered to participate in the study Participants were randomly assigned to either a 6-month experimen tal (Tai Chi) group (n = 49), which exercised twice per week for 60 min, or a wait-list control group (n = 45). A 6-item self-report physical function ing scale. assessing the item of behavioral dysfunction caused by health pr oblems, was used to evaluate change in physical functioning limitations as a result of Tai Chi intervention. Results indicated that compared to the co ntrol group, participants in the Tai Chi group experienced significant impr ovements in all aspects of physical functioning over the course of the 6-mo nth intervention. Overall, the experimental group had 65% improvement acros s all 6 functional status measures ranging from daily activities such as wa lking and lifting to moderate-vigorous activities such as running. It was c oncluded that the 6-month Tai Chi exercise program was effective for improv ing functional status in healthy, physically inactive older adults. A self- paced and self-controlled activity such as Tai Chi has the potential to be an effective, low-cost means of improving functional status in older person s.