The use of Tai Chi in care homes reduces falls by over 32%

Background: Falls are a frequent occurrence in older adults in long-term care facilities.

Local problem: At our long-term care facility, the percentage of patients who fell increased from 45% in 2021 to 68% in 2022, indicating a need for an evidence-based solution.

Methods: We used an evidence-based quality improvement framework to pilot a tai chi exercise program.

Interventions: Residents were invited to participate in the Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance program for 12 weeks. Classes were 30 minutes long and included a 5-minute warm-up and 5-minute cooldown.

Results: Seventy-five residents participated in the tai chi program. There was a significant 32.3% reduction in falls (P =.001). Residents’ fall risk scores decreased 14% (P < .001).

Conclusions: Implementing a tai chi exercise project may affect falls and decrease the overall fall risk.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38030147/

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Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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