Tai Chi: moving for better balance -- development of a community-based falls prevention program.
BACKGROUND
This study was designed to develop an evidence- and community based falls prevention program -- Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance.


METHODS
A mixed qualitative and quantitative approach was used to develop a package of materials for program implementation and evaluation. The developmental work was conducted in 2 communities in the Pacific Northwest. Participants included a panel of experts, senior service program managers or activity coordinators, and older adults. Outcome measures involved program feasibility and satisfaction.


RESULTS
Through an iterative process, a program package was developed. The package contained an implementation plan and class training materials (ie, instructor's manual, videotape, and user's guidebook). Pilot testing of program materials showed that the content was appropriate for the targeted users (community-living older adults) and providers (local senior service organizations). A feasibility survey indicated interest and support from users and providers for program implementation. A 2-week pilot evaluation showed that the program implementation was feasible and evidenced good class attendance, high participant satisfaction, and interest in continuing Tai Chi.


CONCLUSIONS
The package of materials developed in this study provides a solid foundation for larger scale implementation and evaluation of the program in community settings.
Li
Fuzhong
F
Oregon Research Institute, Eugene, OR 97403, USA.
Harmer
Peter
P
Mack
Karin A
KA
Sleet
David
D
Fisher
K John
KJ
Kohn
Melvin A
MA
Millet
Lisa M
LM
Xu
Junheng
J
Yang
Tingzhong
T
Sutton
Beth
B
Tompkins
Yvaughn
Y
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003153:Community Health Services; D003625:Data Collection; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D009922:Oregon; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D036301:Qualitative Research; D040241:Social Marketing; D026302:Tai Ji; D014481:United States