A Study on Tai Chi Exercises in Improving Dynamic Balance and Gait in Older Adults

Introduction: Elderly people in the society faces plenty of physical and medical problems, which make them more at risk of deconditioning and confined to their home due to impaired mobility and frequent falls.

Aim: Aim of the study is to create the awareness about Tai Chi exercises to the elderly people.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Tai Chi exercises in improving speed by using the Timed up and Go Test (TUG Test). To evaluate the effectiveness of Tai Chi exercise in improving balance and gait by using the Tinetti Balance Assessment tool.

Materials and Methods: Pre and Post experimental study was used to prove the effectiveness of Tai Chi exercises on improving balance and gait in older adults. 5 male subject ages above 60 yrs were purposefully selected. Data collected by using Time up & go test (TUG test) and Tinetti balance assessment tool.

Results: The mean score of pre and post test showed a significant difference in TUG test as 3.6 and 14.6 respectively and Tinetti balance scale pre and post as 19 and 25.4 respectively, with t value of 7.49.

Conclusion: The finding of the study revealed that Tai Chi exercises were effective in improving balance and gait in older adults.

Author(s): Nasereen Bobby*

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