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- Title
Tai Chi for the Prevention of Falls Among Older Adults: A Critical Analysis of the Evidence.
- Authors
Nyman, Samuel R.
- Abstract
Despite interest as to the benefits of Tai Chi, there remains a controversy over its effectiveness as an exercise intervention for preventing falls among older adults. This review synthesizes the evidence base with a focus on meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials with community-dwelling older adults. It provides a critical lens on the evidence and quality of the trials. High-quality evidence suggests that Tai Chi is an effective intervention for preventing falls in community settings; however, there is unclear evidence for long-term care facilities and an absence of evidence for hospital settings. When compared directly with other exercise interventions, Tai Chi may offer a superior strategy for reducing falls through its benefits on cognitive functioning. Using data from the current Cochrane review, a new synthesis is presented suggesting that 71–81% of community-dwelling older adults are adherent to class-based Tai Chi interventions. The practical opportunities and challenges for practitioners are discussed.
- Subjects
COGNITION; EVIDENCE-based medicine; TAI chi; RANDOMIZED controlled trials; ACCIDENTAL falls; EXERCISE; OLD age
- Publication
Journal of Aging & Physical Activity, 2021, Vol 29, Issue 2, p343
- ISSN
1063-8652
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1123/japa.2020-0155