Tai Chi Interventions on Physical Functions Among Older Adults

This study aimed to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of a multimodal exercise intervention on an objective measure of physical activity (PA), and objective and subjective measures of physical functions among older adults living in a low-income senior housing complex. 23 older adults (mean age = 80.17 ± 6.913 years) residing in a low-income senior housing complex voluntarily participated in an 8-week intervention. The feasibility of the study was assessed throughout the study period. Additionally, participants completed The Acceptability, Appropriateness, and Feasibility of the Intervention Questionnaire (AAF-IQ) after the intervention. The study outcomes, including physical activity and physical functions, were measured within two weeks before and after the intervention.

Inclusion criteria

• age 65 years or above,
• able to walk for 10 feet without human assistance, a cane or walker was permitted,
• willing to wear an ActiGraph activity monitor for 7 days at baseline and post-intervention test,
• exercise safely as determined by their healthcare provider,
• complete the study tests and questionnaires,
• sign the informed consent,
• able and willing to comply with the requirements of the protocol.

Exclusion criteria

• having recent medical limitations including recent myocardial infarction, stroke, or physical limitations for exercises by completing the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q),
• having 40 or higher body mass index (BMI) by self-reporting body weight and body height, inputting these into the computerized BMI calculator.