TY - JOUR
T1 - Facilitators and Barriers of Tai Chi Practice in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
T2 - Qualitative Study
AU - Du, Yan
AU - Roberts, Penny
AU - Liu, Wei
N1 - Publisher Copyright:
©Yan Du, Penny Roberts, Wei Liu.
PY - 2023
Y1 - 2023
N2 - Background: Numerous studies have documented the beneficial effects of Tai Chi on a variety of health outcomes, especially in older adults. However, only few studies have examined how to improve the practice and adherence of this Asian-originated exercise among older adults in Western countries. Objective: This study aimed to identify facilitators and barriers to Tai Chi practice and adherence in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: This study analyzed the qualitative data collected from 13 participants (mean age 62.0, SD 10.3) at the end of a 15-week randomized controlled trial conducted at a day activity senior center. Semistructured interviews were conducted, recorded, and transcribed; and the data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Four themes emerged: perceived benefit, threats, facilitators, and barriers. Perceived threats (eg, aging and side effects of medications) and perceived benefits of Tai Chi (eg, balance) inspired participants’ engagement in Tai Chi exercise. On the other hand, barriers to Tai Chi practice and adherence included instructor’s teaching style, the complexity of Tai Chi postures and movements, and existing health conditions (eg, hip problems). In essence, factors like Tai Chi class availability, family and peer support, as well as practicing Tai Chi with music may facilitate Tai Chi exercise adherence. Conclusions: The study findings could provide valuable information to health professionals, such as nurses and physical therapists, in developing and implementing effective Tai Chi programs in care plans. Considering health conditions, tailoring Tai Chi exercise instruction styles, encouraging social and peer support, and incorporating music may promote Tai Chi practice and adherence.
AB - Background: Numerous studies have documented the beneficial effects of Tai Chi on a variety of health outcomes, especially in older adults. However, only few studies have examined how to improve the practice and adherence of this Asian-originated exercise among older adults in Western countries. Objective: This study aimed to identify facilitators and barriers to Tai Chi practice and adherence in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: This study analyzed the qualitative data collected from 13 participants (mean age 62.0, SD 10.3) at the end of a 15-week randomized controlled trial conducted at a day activity senior center. Semistructured interviews were conducted, recorded, and transcribed; and the data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Four themes emerged: perceived benefit, threats, facilitators, and barriers. Perceived threats (eg, aging and side effects of medications) and perceived benefits of Tai Chi (eg, balance) inspired participants’ engagement in Tai Chi exercise. On the other hand, barriers to Tai Chi practice and adherence included instructor’s teaching style, the complexity of Tai Chi postures and movements, and existing health conditions (eg, hip problems). In essence, factors like Tai Chi class availability, family and peer support, as well as practicing Tai Chi with music may facilitate Tai Chi exercise adherence. Conclusions: The study findings could provide valuable information to health professionals, such as nurses and physical therapists, in developing and implementing effective Tai Chi programs in care plans. Considering health conditions, tailoring Tai Chi exercise instruction styles, encouraging social and peer support, and incorporating music may promote Tai Chi practice and adherence.
KW - Tai Chi
KW - adherence
KW - barriers
KW - exercise
KW - facilitators
KW - gerontology
KW - health outcomes
KW - martial arts
KW - muscle strengthening
KW - older adults
KW - practice
KW - qualitative study
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U2 - 10.2196/42195
DO - 10.2196/42195
M3 - Article
C2 - 36720122
AN - SCOPUS:85149921167
SN - 2373-6658
VL - 7
JO - Asian Pacific Island Nursing Journal
JF - Asian Pacific Island Nursing Journal
M1 - e42195
ER -