@article{ref1,
title="Tai chi for the prevention of falls among older adults: a critical analysis of the evidence",
journal="Journal of aging and physical activity",
year="2020",
author="Nyman, Samuel R.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="Despite interest as to the benefits of Tai Chi, there remains a controversy over its effectiveness as an exercise intervention for preventing falls among older adults. This review synthesizes the evidence base with a focus on meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials with community-dwelling older adults. It provides a critical lens on the evidence and quality of the trials. High-quality evidence suggests that Tai Chi is an effective intervention for preventing falls in community settings; however, there is unclear evidence for long-term care facilities and an absence of evidence for hospital settings. When compared directly with other exercise interventions, Tai Chi may offer a superior strategy for reducing falls through its benefits on cognitive functioning. Using data from the current Cochrane review, a new synthesis is presented suggesting that 71-81% of community-dwelling older adults are adherent to class-based Tai Chi interventions. The practical opportunities and challenges for practitioners are discussed.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1063-8652",
doi="10.1123/japa.2020-0155",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/japa.2020-0155"
}