Tai Chi Exercises For The Elderly

Tai Chi exercises for elderly people can be performed standing or in a chair. The exercises improve flexibility and strength. Elders who engage in Tai Chi exercises enjoy the increased socialization when practiced in a small group. Tai Chi can also reduce stress, making the exercises a safer alternative than medications to treat anxiety, especially for elders sensitive to anti-anxiety medications. Tai Chi practiced by elders can relieve pain associated with osteoporosis, arthritis and a variety of other chronic pain conditions.

Benefits

Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise especially suited for elderly people. The movements associated with practicing Tai Chi are less likely to exacerbate pain than traditional exercises. Because the movements are gentle, continued participation is likely. Tai Chi can be practiced at home in small spaces, outdoors, or in a classroom setting. Perceptions of improved quality of life are associated with elders who practice Tai Chi. Successful aging includes remaining engaged throughout life.

Tai Chi Programs

Though Tai Chi was developed as a martial art, the movements can be practiced by anyone. Upper body exercises that combine Tai Chi movements, combined with a focus on breathing, can be found at senior centers and community recreational facilities. There are also helpful videos (see Resources).

Benefits for Elderly People Shown in Studies

According to the results of a study that included 40 frail elders, the exercises were perceived as manageable, practiced twice a week for 31 to 60 minutes, twice daily. The study results show that Tai Chi for the elderly should be encouraged as a form of exercise that can be practiced even among frail older adults. Elderly Tai Chi participants preferred practicing the exercises among small group. Another study showed that elders with decreased sensation in the feet benefited from practice by improving balance related to loss of sensation. Damage to nerve endings in the feet can increase risk of falls. Tai Chi exercises reduce fall risk among the elderly by improving sensation in the feet.