| Introduction: As the older adult sector increases in Canada, the number of physically inactive older adults increases (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2009; Chad, 2005). To reduce chronic disease risks (Taylor-Piliae et al, 2005), and to increase psychosocial well-being (Chen et al, 2005), older adults must become more physically active. Engagement with Tai Chi, a safe and low intensity exercise, has been associated with health improvements in older adults (Li et al, 2001; Wolf et al, 1996; Chen et al, 2005).;Methods: In this pre-post intervention, single group study design, N = 48 visible ethnic minority, community dwelling older adults within the Jane-Finch area, were intervened with and analyzed. These participants engaged in16-weeks of Tai Chi exercise for 60 minutes per session, with a program established goal of attending two sessions per week. Pre-intervention and post-intervention measures of perceived stress (Perceived Stress Sale [PSS-14]), pain (Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire-2 [SF-MPQ-2]) and health related quality of life (SF-36 Health Survey) were compared.;Results: Altogether, 70 older adults initiated participation in the program. They were a mean of BLANK years of age and mostly women (80%), widowed or divorced (68%), and educated at the primary level or less ( 63%). Statistically significant improvements were found at post intervention for N = 48 in perceived stress (p=0.017), physical functioning (SF-36) (p=0.004), mental health (SF-36) (p=0.007) and overall health related quality of life (SF-36) (p=0.041) in the assessed group. When stratifying the group into low (N = xx) and moderate/high attenders (N = xx), all outcomes found significant for the total group remained significant for moderate/high attenders: perceived stress (p=0.007), physical functioning (SF-36) (p=0.006), mental health (SF36) (p=0.004), and overall health related quality of life (SF-36) (p=0.053). However, no significant improvements were found for low attenders.;Discussion: Outcomes suggest Tai Chi can be an effective exercise modality for regularly-.;Objectives: To assess a Tai Chi exercise intervention program with lower income, visible minority subjects over the age of 65 years for pre-post differences in perceived stress, pain, and health related quality of life. |
