title: Effects of Tai Chi exercise on balance, functional mobility, and fear of falling among older women.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Tai Chi exercise among older women. Multiple regression analysis revealed statistically significant improvements in scores for balance (p <.001), functional mobility (p <.05), and fear of falling (p <.001) and associated demographic factors. Three months of twice weekly, 30-minute Tai Chi classes was associated with statistically significant improvements in balance and functional mobility and a reduction in the fear of falling in this sample of older women living in retirement communities. T'ai Chi exercises may be an age-appropriate and acceptable form of exercise for older women.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nursing, Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah, GA 31419, USA. taggarhe@mail.armstrong.edu
authors.forename: Helen M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Taggart
mesh_terms: D000058:Accidental Falls; D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003625:Data Collection; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005239:Fear / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009068:Movement; D010809:Physical Fitness; D004856:Postural Balance; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012648:Self Care; D026302:Tai Ji; D016387:Women's Health