Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to conduct a systematic review of the physical, psychosocial and physiological effects of Tai Chi exercise in elderly. Method: 37 articles from Medline search of foreign journals (1966-2006) were surveyed by the key words 'Tai Chi', 'Tai-chi program' and 'Tai-chi and elderly' limiting the range to age 65 or older, choosing clinical trial and randomized controlled trial research in English articles. Four articles were excluded due to methodological study, pilot study and review. The research was analyzed according to health status of the subjects, styles and forms of Tai Chi exercises, factors for physical, psychosocial and physiological measures. Result: A short forming Yang style was commonly used in chronic diseases and health for elderly. Variable outcome measures were used in Tai Chi studies relating to balance, muscle strength, walking and mobility, flexibility and cardiorespiratory function in physical measure, quality of life, depression, self-efficacy, health status, cognition and impact questionnaire in psychosocial measure, lipids, insulin resistance and hormone in physiological measure. Conclusion: Tai Chi exercise appears to have physical and psychosocial benefits and also appears to be safe for elderly and chronic diseases. It is suggested that future studies analyze statistical part of systematic reviews through meta analysis.

Keywords

• Tai Chi;
• Elderly

• 타이치;
• 노인;