CONTACT US: Contact info
|
Citation |
Zhang JG, Ishikawa-Takata K, Yamazaki H, Morita T, Ohta T. Arch. Gerontol. Geriatr. 2005; 42(2): 107-116. |
|
Affiliation |
College of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Nanjing Normal University, China. |
|
Copyright |
(Copyright © 2005, Elsevier Publishing) |
|
DOI |
|
PMID |
16125805 |
|
Abstract |
The aim of this report is to investigate the effects of 8 weeks of intensive Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) training on physiological function and fear of falling (FOF) in the less-robust elderly. Forty-nine community-dwelling elderly, aged 60 or older, were classified randomly into a TCC training or control group. Physical performance measures (including one-leg stance, trunk flexion, and walking speed) and interviews were conducted before and after the intervention. The TCC group showed significant improvements in balance and flexibility, and a reduced FOF, when compared with the control group after the intervention. However, walking speed did not change significantly. The results suggest that a high-frequency, short-term TCC training program can improve balance, flexibility, and increase the confidence of less-robust elderly. These suggest the effectiveness of TCC for intervention as a means to prevent falling among high-risk elderly populations. |