Bright Spot: Tai Chi for Health
Photo by Monica Leonardi on Unsplash
This bright spot was originally published in the 100 Million Healthier Lives Change Library and is brought to you through partnership with 100 Million Healthier Lives and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.
Overview
Detailed Description
Older people are more likely to fall which can cause serious injury. The causes of falls in the elderly include muscle weakness, poor balance and vision, lack of confidence at moving about, and the effect of medication. Many studies have shown Tai Chi as being one of the most effective approaches for preventing falls. The purpose of the Tai Chi for Arthritis for Fall Prevention Program is to prevent falls as well as improve health and the quality of life of older individuals through use of Tai Chi.
Expected Outcomes
Reduction in the number of falls in the older population Improved mobility Improved coordination and balance
Cost Details
Cost details may vary depending upon the organization.
Key Steps for Implementation
Training and/or Tai Chi instructor certification
Required Staffing (FTEs)
The number of FTEs are variable depending upon the organization
Special Infrastructure
The Institute represents all certified instructors/leaders of the Tai Chi for Health programs, it is administered by a director and a governing board consisting of master and senior trainers, instructor, participant (or student), and nominated expert/s. The Institute is a registered non-profit organization in the state of New South Wales, Australia
Training
Training is available at the Tai Chi for Health Institute (TCHI) Senior and Master training available. Although the face to face workshop is usually open to everyone, to be a certified instructor/leader participants must fulfill 4 requirements. Except for the program Tai Chi for Back Pain, you must be a Tai Chi for Arthritis instructor or leader to qualify.
1. Have one of the following qualifications: Tai Chi teacher, Advanced Tai Chi Student Physiotherapist, or Physical Therapist Occupational Therapist, Health Professional (nurse, doctors, and traditional therapist), Accredited/Certified Exercise Instructor, Nurse Certified Allied Health Assistants Other similar qualification
2. Have completed the preparation prior to the workshop and prepare to update your certificate every two years.
3. Attended an instructors/leaders training workshop by Dr. Lam or his authorized master trainers and met the requirements to be a safe and effective teacher, as well as pass a written test.
4. Hold a current certificate of an accredited first aid course or similar qualification e.g. RN or MBBS. For Australian only: agree to use the title "Instructor” only if you are a currently qualified AKWF instructor; otherwise you should use the title "Leader” in relation to teaching this program
Types of Staff
Health Clinicians (Ex. Doctors, Nurses, Physical Therapists), Tai Chi Instructors
Return on Investment Details
Arthritis Foundation USA
Outcome Measures
- Improved balance
- Improved confidence
- Improved muscular strength
Process Measures
Number of fall injuries
Resources
How to Become an Instructor of Dr. Lam Tai Chi for Health Institute’s Program
Resource
Brought to you by Tai Chi for Health Institute
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