Citation

Chen KM, Hsu YC, Chen WT, Tseng HF. J. Clin. Nurs. 2007; 16(5): 845-852.

Affiliation

Department of Nursing, Fooyin University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1365-2702.2006.01448.x

PMID

17459141

Abstract

Aims and objectives. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Tai Chi on the physical and psychological well-being of elders who resided in long-term care facilities. Background. The beneficial effects of Tai Chi on elders' well-being have been well-documented; however, most of the studies focused on community-dwelling or healthier elders. Design and methods. In this longitudinal, time-series, quasi-experimental study, a convenience sample of 28 institutionalized elders was recruited. A six-month Yang-style Tai Chi intervention was administered twice a week for 60 minutes per practice. The well-being outcome variables, including physical and mental health status, blood pressure, quality of sleep, occurrence of falls and fear of falling, were measured before the intervention and then at one-month, two-month, three-month and six-month intervals. Results. Results indicated that the physical health status and social functioning of frail elders were significantly improved after Tai Chi practice [F(4,24) = 3.42, p = 0.038; F(4,24) = 9.66, p = 0.001 respectively]. Conclusions. Tai Chi practice is beneficial for frail older people. Relevance to clinical practice. The findings provide a basis for using Yang-style Tai Chi as a floor activity in long-term care facilities to promote the well-being of the older residents.

Language: en