Title : Tackling tai chi together: A model for success
Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to determine whether community dwelling older adults (OA) would show improvement in overall functional mobility after taking part in a short term (10 week) free introductory community Tai Chi program. Additionally, we hope to highlight the benefits of Physical Therapists collaborating with local municipalities who already offer programing to OA to prevent falls and improve function in order to provide service to a very underserved population. The benefits of “knowledge of results” are obvious when participants were asked if they would continue participation in community programs based on their assessments. The data will support both the benefits of participation in a short term Tai Chi program as well as results of a survey of participants related to their perception of the importance of understanding the impact the program had in their overall functional mobility and safety as well as its impact on their decision to continue participating in this and similar programs.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- Ways in which local municipalities can partner with local practicing clinicians to provide services to underserved populations
- Ways to incorporate assessment into exercise programs
- The importance of understanding the “real” benefits of participation in community health programs (knowledge of results)
- A real-life way to defeat value induced bias and foster improved community participation
