title: Effects of Tai Chi on cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults: a review.
abstract: As the population of the United States ages, activities to maintain or improve cognitive function will become increasingly important to preserve functional ability, independence and health-related quality of life. This article is a review of recent research on Tai Chi and cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults. Of the 12 studies reviewed, 10 reported improvement in measures of executive function, language, learning, and/or memory. Several design features make comparisons across studies challenging. As a moderate-intensity, low-impact form of exercise, Tai Chi is appropriate for older adults and seems to offer positive cognitive benefits. Recommendations for future research are provided.
authors.affiliation: College of Nursing, The University of Arizona, 1305 N. Martin, P.O. Box 210203, Tucson, AZ 85721-0203, USA. Electronic address: sallymiller@email.arizona.edu.
authors.forename: Sally M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.affiliation: College of Nursing, The University of Arizona, 1305 N. Martin, P.O. Box 210203, Tucson, AZ 85721-0203, USA.
authors.forename: Ruth E
authors.initials: RE
authors.lastname: Taylor-Piliae
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003071:Cognition; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008568:Memory; D026302:Tai Ji; D014481:United States
keywords: Cognitive function; Mind-body exercise; Older adults; Tai Chi