Effectiveness of Tai Chi exercise on balance, falls, and motor function in older adults: a meta-analysis
Author: Liangxing Li1, Shoujun Guo2, Bing Ding3, Jinsong Zhang1
Affiliation:
1 Postgraduate School, Harbin Sport University, Harbin, China.
2 Department of Physical Education and Research, Heilongjiang International University, Harbin, China.
3 Football Teaching and Research Office, Harbin Sport University, Harbin, China.
Conference/Journal: Front Med (Lausanne)
Date published: 2024 Nov 5
Other:
Volume ID: 11 , Pages: 1486746 , Special Notes: doi: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1486746. , Word Count: 171
Objective:
This study systematically evaluated Tai Chi's effects on balance, fall prevention, and physical function in older adults.
Methods:
A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, and EMbase databases included randomized controlled trials published up to August 2024. The meta-analysis used RevMan 5.4 and applied the GRADE framework to assess evidence quality.
Results:
Twenty-two studies met the criteria. Tai Chi significantly improved balance and physical function, particularly in the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), one-leg standing with eyes closed (OLS-C), and Timed up-and-go test (TUG). Fear of falling (FOF) also reduced, though changes in Tinetti Balance Test (TBT) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) were not statistically significant.
Conclusion:
Tai Chi effectively enhances balance and physical function in older adults, with notable potential for fall risk reduction. While some tests showed no significant effect, overall results support Tai Chi as a valuable intervention to promote older adults' health.
Systematic review registration:
https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2024-8-0082/.
Keywords: Tai Chi; balance; falls; older adults; physical functional abilities.
PMID: 39564508 PMCID: PMC11573509 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1486746
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