Tai Chi

Tai chi: Moving for Better Balance The Need for Group Exercise Programs to Prevent Falls Each year, about one-third of adults aged 65 years of age and older fall, and 20 to 30 percent of those who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries, such as bruises, hip fractures, and head traumas. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths and the most common cause of nonfatal injuries among this population. Exercise that improves strength and balance, such as Tai Chi, helps prevent falls. Research has shown that practicing Tai Chi, a balancepromoting exercise, is a very effective way for older adults to reduce their risk of falling and to maintain their independence. Description of the Program The Tai chi: Moving for Better Balance program consists of eight Tai Chi forms that were derived from the well-known, simplified 24-form Yang-style. However, the forms have been modified for community adults who wish to reduce their fall risk by improving their balance, strength, mobility, and confidence in performing everyday activities. The eight forms are arranged in progression from easiest to most difficult. Each of these forms can be performed and practiced singly or in combination with other forms as part of a routine. The eight-form routine adheres to the fundamental principles of traditional Tai Chi, which involves weight-shifting, body alignment, and coordinated movements performed in a slow, continuous, circular, and flowing manner. Research to better understand the effectiveness of Tai chi: Moving for Better Balance has been underway since 2004. Increasing evidence supports the health benefits of the program for older adults, including, but not limited to, reducing blood pressure, improving muscular strength, balance, and postural control, improving sleep quality, reducing depression, reducing fall risk (by as much as 55 percent), enhancing mental well-being, and improving overall quality of life. The adoption and reach of the program in community settings have been evaluated in senior activity centers and medical clinics. This guidebook summarizes the results of years of scientific research and community evaluations, including ongoing consultations between the program developer, members of his teaching team in Oregon, and instructors and program users from other states. Expectations about Learning and the Health Benefits of this Program Program participants need to know that it takes both time and effort to learn the various forms contained in this program. Each student will likely experience a learning curve in becoming skilled at and eventually mastering the program routine. Participants should be informed that the health benefits they can expect from the program may require practicing Tai Chi over an extended period of time. Research shows that it may take at least three months before benefits are perceived, for example noticing an improvement in balance and a reduction in falls. Therefore, long-term commitment and sustained practice is strongly recommended.