A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of TAI CHI Ch-Uan Exercises on Balance Control among Older People Living in Selected Old Age Homes in Bangalore, Karnataka

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The treatment of balance disorders lacks a fixed method, with identification and
management of external factors being crucial. Many balance disorders benefit from balance training and moderate
physical activity. Exercise programs encompass strength training, balance and coordination exercises, dual task
training, hydrotherapy, tai chi, and yoga, all proven to enhance balance. Tai Chi Chuan, a martial art, utilizes slow,
graceful moves and precise body movements to enhance body awareness and balance, combined with breathing
techniques for mind-body harmony and energy flow. Practicing Tai Chi fosters muscle strength, flexibility, aerobic
conditioning, and stress reduction, contributing to overall well-being and balance improvement.
Methods: The study was conducted at Omashram Trust, Bangalore, Karnataka. The research design selected
for the study was quasi experimental pre-test post-test with experimental and control group. Non probability
purposive sampling technique was adopted to select the samples. The data collection tool consisted of part I and
part II.
Part I – Dealt with the interview schedule for demographic data which consist of 13 items used to collect the
sample characteristics such as age in years, gender, religion, educational status, past occupation, source of income,
marital status, diet, on a therapeutic diet, practice of regular exercise, presence of any physical illness, aware of
information about Tai Chi Chuan exercise, if yes.
Part II - Berg balance scale was used to assess the balance control in older people.
Results of the Study
Association between the body balance status and demographic variables
a) Experimental Group
The finding of this study in the experimental group showed that there was significant association between the level
of balance control and demographic variables such as age and past occupation. Hence the research hypothesis was
accepted at 0.05 level of significance and null hypothesis was rejected.

Control Group
The finding of this study in the control group proved that there was significant association between the level of
balance control and demographic variables such as age, education and presence of any physical illness. Hence the
research hypothesis was accepted at 0.05 level of significance and null hypothesis was rejected.
Discussion: The overall findings of the study clearly showed that effectiveness of tai CHI CH-UAN exercises
on balance control among older people living in selected old age homeswas more effective for the Experimental
group than the Control group.