Taiji for individuals with Parkinson disease and their support partners: a program evaluation

METHODS: participants (N=15) included 8 individuals with Parkinsons and 7 support partners with no history of Parkinsons. Group tai chi instruction was offered in 45-minute weekly sessions, for 12 weeks. Post-program evaluation included administration of a survey questionnaire, thematic analysis of a focus group discussion, instructor reflections, and review of attendance records. RESULTS: Benefits were perceived by participants in physical, psychological, and social domains. Thirteen of the survey respondents, including 6 of the 8 respondents with Parkinsons reported perceiving a physical benefit attributed to tai chi practice. Improved balance was reported most frequently. Instructor observations and participant testimony suggest movement capability for individuals with Parkinsons may also be improved by performing tai chi.