Effects of Tai Chi practice on postural sway for older people during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Tai Chi has been promoted for older people to prevent falls and may be seen as a priority exercise during coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Tai Chi practice on standing balance for older people in a nursing home. Thirty-eight older people recruited during COVID-19 extended restrictions, a Tai Chi group who were regularly performed Tai Chi during the periods (n = 18, more than five-year experience) and Control group (n = 20, no Tai Chi experience). Postural sway during standing balance was quantified under four different conditions:1) eyes open (EO); 2) eyes closed (EC); 3) eyes open and cross step with right leg forward (ER) and 4) with left leg forward (EL). Significantly less postural sway was observed in the Tai Chi group, particularly during EO and EL conditions. The findings of this study support the positive effects of Tai Chi practice on balance control. During COVID-19, although older people living in the nursing home limited their outdoor mobility, Tai Chi practice may maintain their physical function on a standing balance.