Tai chi improves low balance confidence
Fear of falling may lead to activity restriction that is self-imposed rather than due to actual physical impairments.
Researchers in Canada and Israel reviewed CAM treatment options.
First, the details.
- 30 studies were included in this review.
- A meta-analysis was conducted from data in 24 studies.
And, the results.
- Treatments were pooled into exercise, tai chi, and multifactorial intervention.
- Low significant effects were found for exercise and multifactorial interventions.
- Medium significant effects were found for tai chi.
The bottom line?
The authors concluded, “Tai chi interventions are the most beneficial in increasing the balance confidence of older adults.”
The benefits contribute to an improved quality of life as well.
In addition, researchers at the University of Arizona, in Tucson, recently reported that tai chi led to improvement in cognitive functioning that was maintained through 12 months.
4/20/112 14:00 JR
