Tai Chi is a centuries-old Chinese martial art also known as shadow boxing, combining physical training, self-defense, and meditation.

Its focus is on body tightening, mental alertness, and breathing, with a series of slow, flowing movements aimed at harmonizing body and soul.

Practicing Tai Chi gently stimulates muscles, joints, tendons, and bones, benefiting the spine and nervous system.

It has calming, meditative effects and improves balance, flexibility, and coordination, which are especially important for older adults .

Falls among older adults represent a major health risk causing pain, disability, loss of independence, and even death.

About one in four Americans aged 65+ report falling yearly, with a significant portion leading to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma.

Factors contributing to fall risk include age-related declines in balance, strength, cognition, vision, medications, chronic diseases, and environmental hazards.

Fear of falling often leads to activity restriction, further weakening balance and increasing future fall risk.

Preventing falls is critical to maintaining health and quality of life in seniors

[cf35f7cc-4afe-4e57-aaa1-60eec2e0d061_430451653; 08b29f61-ad72-46e6-859d-df2e6233ec1b_349742184].

Scientific studies indicate that exercise programs focused on balance, gait, strength, and functional training can reduce falls and fall-related injuries in older adults.

A meta-review of 17 studies including over 4,000 seniors showed most interventions reduced fall injuries and fractures, emphasizing balance training.

Tai Chi featured in two of these studies and demonstrated similar benefits as other exercise types in lowering fall risk .

Specifically, Tai Chi improves physical stability by enhancing proprioception, muscle strength, flexibility, and balance.

It is also useful for people with Parkinson’s disease by improving mobility and coordination and may support cognitive function in dementia patients.

Tai Chi is a centuries-old Chinese martial art also known as shadow boxing, combining physical training, self-defense, and meditation.

Title:

Content: Learn about the sport of Tai Chi
The German health centre says Tai Chi is a centuries-old Chinese martial art, also known as shadow boxing.
It combines physical training, self-defense and meditation.
The focus of Tai Chi is on body tightening, mental alertness and breathing, the center explained, noting that motor training consists of a series of traditional Chinese physical exercises that flow smoothly with each other in order to achieve harmony between body and soul.
Muscle and Joint Stimulation
In this way all the muscles, tendons, joints and bones are stimulated and stretched in a gentle way.
The upright position of the back during exercise creates a stretching effect in the spine, relieving pressure on the intervertebral discs.
The nervous system is also positively affected by the gentle posture of the back.
Studies have suggested that tai chi reduces the risk of falls in older adults thanks to its ability to improve their balance.
The sport also has a positive effect on degenerative arthritis, the symptoms of which are knee stiffness, pain and swelling.
Improve lung function
Tai chi is also beneficial for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as it improves lung function.
It is also useful for patients with Parkinson ’ s, which affects the nervous system and its symptoms are disorders of movement, tremor of the hands, stiffness and instability of the body position, where sports contribute to improving balance and mobility.
In addition, tai chi improves the cognitive functioning of the brain, making it also useful for dementia patients.
On the other hand, slow flowing movements have a relaxing and meditative effect, helping to feel relaxed, calm and psychologically comfortable.
Source: German

Its focus is on body tightening, mental alertness, and breathing, with a series of slow, flowing movements aimed at harmonizing body and soul.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

What does Ruth Taylor-Piliae of University of Arizona's College of Nursin say about Tai Chi?

She tells NPR that Tai Chi's gentle, slow movements and controlled breathing tend to activate what's known as the parasympathetic nervous system, which relaxes the body during times of stress.

What health advantages have been linked to regular practice of Tai Chi?

An overall sense of well-being.
Higher mental clarity.

What study was included in trials combining excercise with a cognitive compoent?

Cognitively enhanced tai chi in older adults at risk for dementia.

Practicing Tai Chi gently stimulates muscles, joints, tendons, and bones, benefiting the spine and nervous system.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

What health advantages have been linked to regular practice of Tai Chi?

It has calming, meditative effects and improves balance, flexibility, and coordination, which are especially important for older adults .

Title:

Content: SAFETYLIT WEEKLY UPDATE

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Journal Article

Citation

Kashyap K, Dhar M, Bisht K, Bahurupi Y, Pathania M. BMJ Open 2023; 13(12): e070540.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070540

PMID

38151281

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Fear of fall is experienced by the elderly irrespective of the presence or absence of history of fall. Falls contribute to injuries that culminate in hospitalisation that incur unwarranted medical expenses. Yoga is unique to Indian cultural practices, with a potential to enhance proprioception. It increases self-body awareness, ultimately improving the balancing capacity of older adults. Thus, the objective of this study is to compare the effect of yoga therapy in the study and control groups at 12 weeks from the baseline.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This study is designed as an open-label, randomised controlled trial (1:1) with a sample size of 62 elderly patients more than or equal to 60 years of age. Participation of either sex, male or female with a fear of fall will be considered. Two randomised groups of 31 participants each will receive standard therapy for their primary diseases as per the local, national or international guidelines. However, participants in the intervention arm will receive additional structured yoga therapy sessions. The primary objective of this study is to assess and compare the change in fear of fall score of participants in each group using Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) at 12 weeks versus baseline. The secondary endpoint will assess the change in the quality of life of participants at 3 months compared with the baseline.Data will be gathered, entered into Microsoft Excel and further analysed by R software (V.4.3.0). Changes in FES-Intervention and BBS of two groups will be compared either by Student's t-test for parametric data or Mann-Whitney U test for non-parametric data. Statistical significance will be considered if p<0.05 at 95% confidence level. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval for this study protocol (version 1.0, 22 April 2022) was obtained from the institute ethics committee (AIIMS/IEC/22/195). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CTRI/2022/06/043287.

Language: en

Keywords

Aging; GERIATRIC MEDICINE; Health & safety; Quality in health care; REHABILITATION MEDICINE

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How does Tai Chi help people with Parkinson's disease?

It can effectively improve the movement symptoms that may cause falls of elderly patients.

How doesTai Chi help prevent falls for older people?

It improves the balance of older people.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

Enhance balance
Promoting relaxation
Increased flexibility

What benefits does Tai Chi haves for healthy aging?

It helps to improve factors linked to a longer life like balance, mobility, and stability.

What did studies show about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It limits the danger of falls among the elderly.

It improves the balance of older people.

What do orthopedic specialists say about the benefits of learning Tai Chi?

Excercises like the horse stance in Tai Chi that can help prevent falls.

What does Ruth Taylor-Piliae of University of Arizona's College of Nursin say about Tai Chi?

She tells NPR that Tai Chi's gentle, slow movements and controlled breathing tend to activate what's known as the parasympathetic nervous system, which relaxes the body during times of stress.

What health advantages have been linked to regular practice of Tai Chi?

An overall sense of well-being.
Enhanced flexibility.

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

Falls among older adults represent a major health risk causing pain, disability, loss of independence, and even death.

Title:

Content: Falls by seniors represent serious health concern

NEW YORK, April 11 (UPI) -- For seniors, life can change in the blink of an eye if they trip on a rug or slip on a wet floor.

Injuries from falls represent a significant source of pain, disability, loss of independence and early death in order adults, according to the World Health Organization.

About 1 in 4 Americans age 65 and older -- more than 14 million -- reports falling every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And the rate is increasing, the CDC says.

"Every second of every day, an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall in the U.S --making falls the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group," the agency says.

And the National Institute on Aging reports that "the risk of falling -- and fall-related problems -- rises with age."

In late March, former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman's death at age 82 due to complications from a fall at his home cast the spotlight on serious injuries that can affect seniors.

Another celebrity who endured falls was the late Nancy Reagan. The former first lady stumbled multiple times in her senior years, fracturing her pelvis, tailbone and ribs.

The reasons people are more likely to fall as they age stem in part from age-related changes in gait, strength and balance, said Dr. Elizabeth Phelan, a falls expert and founding director of the Fall Prevention Clinic at UW Medicine in Seattle.

"However, falls are not inevitable," said Phelan, who also is a professor of geriatrics. "They are largely preventable. Awareness of what contributes to falls is critical to preventing them."

Vision and hearing impairments contribute to falls. So does the accumulation of chronic conditions that affect cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and neurological systems. And a drop in blood pressure -- which may happen when someone stands up after lying down or sitting -- also raises fall risk, Phelan said.

Medications that cloud people's thinking or make them feel sleepy or off-balance are another major risk factor for falls. People who die from a fall tend to take multiple medications -- six on average, she said.

"It's important for people to understand the link between medications and falls, and to initiate conversations with their doctors about whether there is an ongoing need for each of their medications," Phelan said. "There are safer alternatives to medications for many symptoms."

Alcohol use also is a risk factor that can be controlled. Recent research has found an increase in alcohol consumption among older adults and a rise in emergency department visits for alcohol-related fall injuries, she said.

Identifying and addressing modifiable risk factors reduces the chances of falling. Among people who fall repeatedly, falls "are not purely accidental," Phelan said. "This is a commonly held, but false belief. In fact, falls result from the interaction of a person with their environment."

People who experience fatal falls may have had preceding decline in their functional ability -- physical, cognitive or both -- that led them to limit their outdoor mobility, so their falls occur indoors, Phelan said.

While hip fractures are associated with more advanced age and an underlying neurological condition, she noted that head injuries are more common among men, people who take blood thinners and those without a musculoskeletal diagnosis.

Even improper footwear can play a role in falls, said Dr. Amanda Lathia, a geriatrician who helps manage the interdisciplinary falls clinic at University Hospitals in Cleveland.

"Wearing slippers or socks in the home increases the risk for falling," Lathia said. "It is best to wear shoes with good support in the home and outside the home."

Other hazards include a lack of handrails, clutter, stairs, poor lighting, ice, snow and pets, Lathia said, noting that "the bathroom is the location of most falls as we get older."

She suggested installing handrails in the bathroom and along all stairwells, using a raised toilet seat, and avoiding going outside in bad weather.

Although most falls don't cause injury, potentially serious ones can occur. Fractures are the most common. Having a hip fracture increases the risk of dying, particularly within the first year afterward, Lathia said.

Fall-induced head trauma, such as a brain bleed, can lead to death if left treated. And if older adults fall and remain stuck on the ground for a long time, they can suffer a traumatic breakdown of muscle, which can lead to serious kidney failure and even death, she said.

Once an older adult falls, the risk for future falls rises. This "unfortunately leads to the double-edged sword of people starting to restrict their activities because they're afraid to fall," said Dr. Laurie Theriot, chief of geriatric medicine at Prisma Health's upstate region in Greenville, S.C.

"It's counterintuitive, but we actually want to see that patient walk more, create a support system and get more active to improve balance and mobility," Theriot said.

"In the hospital, we consult on so many falls that involve broken hips," she said, cautioning that health professionals need "to be really careful how we obtain [a patient's] history because, especially with osteoporosis, we may find that you fractured your hip before you fell."

That's because "osteoporosis is often undiagnosed because gradual loss of bone density is not painful until the bone actually breaks," Theriot said.

Falls that lead to death are most often due to hip fractures or head injuries. People who die after a fall that results in a hip fracture tend to be older and have an underlying neurological condition, Phelan said.

On the other hand, she noted that fatal falls stemming from a head injury are more common among men, people who take blood thinners and those without a musculoskeletal diagnosis.

Another problem arises when people forget if they took their medications, said Andrea Fleischman, an assistant professor in the department of occupational therapy at Creighton University Health Sciences Campus-Phoenix.

"Sometimes, older individuals will double up on their medication regimen, which can make them increasingly lethargic or dizzy," Fleischman said. She said she recommends that older adults regularly review medications with their clinicians and family members, especially if they have memory issues.

Fall prevention strategies include regular exercise to maintain muscle mass and bone density. Routine physicals and vision checkups are also important, Fleischman said.

She also cited the importance of ensuring the home is safe from tripping hazards, such as throw rugs. That's because older adults may not be able to catch themselves or cushion a fall as easily as younger or middle-aged people.

But whether injuries lead to death depends to a large extent on the person's age and overall health status, Fleischman said.

Even so, "the unfortunate statistic is that the morbidity rate for a person who falls and breaks a hip is upwards of 50%," she said. "It's due to decreased mobility."

Older adults often hit their head because protective reflexes -- which prompt people to put their hands out to stop or cushion a fall -- diminish with advanced age, Fleischman said.

After a fall, timely medical care and follow-up can make a difference. "Hopefully you're able to recover, but you need that additional support to determine your risks and prevent future falls," Theriot said.

She added that "physical therapy, occupational therapy and interventions like a fall risk assessment in your home environment are all important."

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

About one in four Americans aged 65+ report falling yearly, with a significant portion leading to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma.

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

Factors contributing to fall risk include age-related declines in balance, strength, cognition, vision, medications, chronic diseases, and environmental hazards.

Title:

Content: Countdown to the day of issuance
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Why are elderly people prone to serious consequences when they fall and die of pneumonia?
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
What we want you to know is
Fall is a serious problem in the elderly population, and the people should not be careless; and repeated falls will lead to an increase in the morbidity and mortality of the population, and lead to a decline in the function of all parts of the body.
Taking into account the mental, emotional and physical damage caused by falls, it is recommended to intervene early to prevent falls.
National treasure famous writer Sima Zhongyuan passed away on January 4, his son confirmed that Sima teacher walked home on December 31 last year, after a small gentle slope, due to the instability of the center of gravity, two feet interlaced, resulting in a fracture of the left thigh; during hospitalization, he had suffered heart shock, lung water accumulation and other acute conditions.
In fact, falling is one of the most common and serious problems that cause disability, especially in older age groups.
And why is it that the dead are the ones who are the ones who are the ones who are the ones who are the ones who are the ones who are the ones who are the
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) published guidelines, falls are events in which people inadvertently fall to the ground or other lower positions, and there is a direct correlation between falls and the risk of death, various pathogenic risks, and decreased physical function, and occur more frequently in the elderly, children, and athletes.
In older populations, related complications are associated with an increased incidence of falls, which in turn increases the likelihood of injury.
According to the US National Health Service, normal gait is the result of effective coordination of neurons such as the basal nuclear brain stem system, muscle tension control, and “proprioception ” formed by vision and hearing.
The increased risk of falls in the elderly is mostly related to aging, past disease history and increased drug volume, which lead to the degeneration of the above-mentioned neurons.
If the elderly have the following conditions, it is more likely to lead to a sharp increase in the risk of falling:
1.
Myosomia.
It may be associated with reduced diet, prolonged hospitalization, and chronic illness.
In general, muscle mass, coordinated decline and sedentary behavior in the elderly are the main causes of sarcopenia.
2.
Cognitive dysfunction.
Cognitive decline, such as dementia or brain damage such as stroke, is common in the elderly population, and people with long-term illness, pain in specific areas, or intense emotional changes are at higher risk.
3.
Low blood pressure after meals.
It is a non-physiological cause of falls in the elderly, which may be due to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system or decreased cardiovascular system function.
4.
Obesity. Obesity in the elderly is likely to lead to an increased risk of falls, because obese people are more likely to be sedentary and do not exercise, resulting in a decline in muscle mass and nervous system, muscle function.
5.
Osteoporosis.
Bone loosening can put the elderly at risk of fracture, and bone loosening fractures have a high fatality rate in the elderly population.
6.
Decreased diaphragm strength. Decreased diaphragm strength and function can lead to unstable back strength, increasing the risk of falls.
Is it not only the elderly who are at high risk of falling? 14 high risk factors for falling events
The National Institutes of Health also lists risk factors for falls (ranked from high to low by association), including the following 14 points:
• History of falls: Increased risk of repeated falls.
• Age: Increased age is associated with reduced response time during falls, especially when the gait starts and walks.
• Gender: In most older age groups, women are more likely to fall than men.
• Race: Studies show that white people are more likely to fall than African, Asian, or ethnic groups.
• Medications: If you take more than 4 medications at the same time, the risk of falls increases significantly.
For example, taking benzodiazepines increases the risk of falls and hip fractures at night by 44%; medications such as anti-arrhythmia drugs, digoxin (anti-heart failure or arrhythmia drugs), diuretics, sedatives, and psychotropic medications also significantly increase the risk of falls.
• Living alone: Living alone is a risk factor for falls, and injuries and adverse consequences may increase if the person who falls is unable to get up with help from others.
• Adverse health conditions: Adverse health conditions associated with an increased risk of falls, including cardiovascular disease, arthritis, thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, depression, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In addition, vertigo and incontinence are also common in people who fall.
Loss of gait and mobility: After age 30, the body ’ s strength and endurance decreases by about 10% every decade; when strength, strength and endurance decrease, the risk of falls increases.
• Sedentary Immobility: Sedentary people may fall more often than sedentary people.
• Fear of falling: Statistics show that up to 70% of people who have recently fallen are afraid of falling, and 50% of this population may be too afraid of falling, limiting physical or social activities, and entering a vicious cycle that increases the risk of falling.
Malnutrition: Malnutrition can lead to low body mass index (BMI), which increases the risk of falls.
In addition, long-term vitamin D deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, osteoporosis and impaired gait function.
• Cognitive disorders: Dementia, poor memory, and unstable mental states are associated with an increased risk of falls.
• Impaired vision: Eye problems such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular lesions, etc., affect vision and are more likely to cause falls.
• Foot problems: Problems with foot pain while walking (such as plantar fasciitis), calluses, toe or nail deformities, foot ulcers, etc., can increase the risk of balance difficulties and falls.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that with the increase in the number of these 14 risk factors, the risk of falling suddenly increases: for every additional risk factor, the risk of falling doubles within a year.
In the absence of risk factors, the proportion starts at 8%, and in the case of four risk factors, the proportion can increase by up to 78%, and the risk group has to be careful.
One in six people over the age of 65 has fallen, and more than half of falls occur on this occasion.
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare ’ s 110-year cause of death statistics, 6,775 people died in accidents in 110 years, ranking seventh in the national cause of death, of which 21.9% (1,482) fell. One person was hospitalized for a fall.
It is worth noting that 52% of the falls and injuries of the elderly occurred indoors and 48% occurred outdoors, among which the indoor falls and injuries ranked in the living room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen or restaurant, balcony, staircase, etc.
According to the National Health Administration, falls are the leading cause of hospitalization and emergency care for people over the age of 65, and the incidence of falls increases with age.
How to avoid serious consequences after a fall?
5 things you should know before entering old age
In summary, people are reminded that before entering middle and old age, they should improve bone density and make bones strong through measures such as changing their lifestyle, eating habits or active exercise to avoid the risk of accidents caused by falls in the future.
According to Jenna Hope, a dietitian at the University of Surrey in the UK, there are five ways people can ensure the health of bone structure:
• Take weight training
Hope says that heavy training not only builds muscle, but also contributes to the growth of newborn bones and maintains the integrity of existing bone structures.
A study published in the Journal of Postmenopausal Medicine mentioned that postmenopausal women underwent a 12-month weight training program and found that they had higher bone density in their spine and hips.
This area is usually susceptible to osteoporosis.
• Vitamin C intake
Vitamin C is widely found in vegetables and fruits, and the recommended daily intake of vitamin C (40 mg) can be reached by consuming more than 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Hope points out that foods rich in vitamin C include citrus, peppers, strawberries, kiwifruit, green coconut and potatoes.
• Extra Calcium
Calcium is the most important nutrient in bone, helping to strengthen bone strength and strength.
However, Hope also stressed that without proper vitamin D and vitamin K as carriers, calcium in bones is not effective.
It is recommended to supplement more than 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day and ensure adequate sun exposure. Vitamin K is commonly found in green vegetables and soy products, all of which are essential for bone health.
• Avoid too low heat
Excessive calories can cause obesity, and too little calories is still too much. Extreme diet methods such as dieting and fasting increase the risk of bone weakness, Hope said.
In addition, too low heat can lead to an individual being too light, and the risk of developing skeletal diseases is also increased.
Therefore, all kinds of nutrients should be taken regularly to avoid excessive weight fluctuations and increase the probability of bone loosening or fracture.
• More protein intake
Hope recommends that people over 65 years old strengthen their bones with good protein intake and regular retraining.
Studies have pointed out that the intake of protein in the elderly is accompanied by exercise, which significantly reduces the potential risk of falls and fractures.
Complete and excellent proteins such as lean meats, fish, and eggs, vegans can also consume plant-based proteins such as beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains and soy products.
Fall is a serious problem in the elderly population, and the people should not be careless; and repeated falls will lead to an increase in the morbidity and mortality of the population, and lead to a decline in the function of all parts of the body.
Taking into account the mental, emotional and physical damage caused by falls, it is recommended to intervene early to prevent falls.
This article is reproduced by Chao Health Authorization, and the original is published here.
Original title: The National Treasure Writer Saima Nakayama has died!
Is it not only the elderly who are at high risk of falling?
The most dangerous factor is “it. ”
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Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

Fear of falling often leads to activity restriction, further weakening balance and increasing future fall risk.

Title:

Content: Healthy aging comes with challenges. For a variety of reasons, as each year passes, the likelihood of falling increases.

According to Dr. Boris Goralnik, a geriatric specialist at UPMC in North Central Pa, a fall is defined as an unexpected event in which a person comes to rest on the ground, floor, or a lower level.

“Falls result in fall-related injuries, progression of gait impairments, loss of independence, depression,” Goralnik said. “It is a leading cause of injury-related morbidity and mortality among older adults.”

By preventing falls, providers try to prevent related injuries such as fractures, hematomas, and skin lacerations. From practice and literature, said Goralnik, the most important risk factor of falls is a previous history of falls.

According to Janine Fee, MS, MPT, a physical therapist who is certified in vestibular rehabilitation at Evangelical Community Hospital, physical balance, which is important to avoid falling, can be complicated.

“I like to use the analogy of a baseball field,’’ Fee said. “Every player on the field is important and if a player is not working, then your team — your balance — is going to be impacted.”

Fee said many systems have a direct impact on balance. Eyes, ears, sense of touch — especially with our feet, muscle strength, flexibility, and posture are a few. And, the brain can have a major impact on our ability to avoid falling.

Fee said any weakening of one or more of these areas will significantly increase the risk of falling.

According to the Centers for Disease Control website, one out of four seniors over the age of 65 will fall each year. One out of five of those falls will cause serious injuries such as broken bones or head injuries.

“This can then lead to serious consequences that may significantly impact a person’s overall quality of life,” said Fee. “Even if the fall didn’t cause harm, it is likely that the person now develops a fear of falling.”

Many factorsIn many cases, Goralnik said, falls and fall-related injuries lead to substantial deficiency in activities of daily living and the need for supportive care for older adults. He agreed with Fee that a fear of falling leads to things like not participating in activities that require balance, causing weaknesses and furthering the risk of repeated falls. Paying attention to the body and being more aware of areas contributing to balance is a big step in preventing falls.

Age alone should not be blamed as a factor regarding balance, said Fee.

“I strongly believe that if you stay active, you can minimize the effects that aging has on all of these players,” Fee said.

Diseases and underlying medical conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, neuropathy, strokes, vision problems, and pain can impact a person’s balance. Other factors such as medications, fear of falling, and environmental factors.

It is very important for older patients to discuss with their providers any changes in the gait, possible new onset gait unsteadiness, or if they start to experience new musculoskeletal pain, Goralnik advised.

“Some of the medications may increase the risk of falls,” said Goralnik. “It is very important for people to have a complete list of all current medications when they visit their medical providers.”

Having detailed information, he said, about existing and potential risk factors may help reduce the risk of future falls.

Fee added that testing can be completed to assess balance and what kind of treatment or therapy might be available to assist with balance. Fee said a fall risk assessment is a good first step to preventing falls.

“You can talk to your doctor or health care provider to refer you to a physical therapist to evaluate your risk for falling,” said Fee.

She said a physical therapist will measure/evaluate strength, flexibility, analyzation of posture and feet, how you walk and perform specific balance measures to determine your areas of weakness. The therapist may also ask about fall history and possible home hazards like uneven pavement, rugs, steps, clutter or pets.

“Then a physical therapist can design a specialized treatment program to help you reduce your risk of falls,” Fee said. “Other recommendations to improve overall balance is getting involved in a local gym where you can perform strength and balance exercises like Tai Chi or yoga.”

Temporary conditionsIn addition to medical conditions such as strokes, brain injuries, etc., other temporary conditions also have effects on an individual’s balance.

Fee, a physical therapist who specializes in inner ear disorders, said the most common inner ear problem is a condition known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Classic symptoms include brief episodes of spinning or imbalance that occur when lying down, rolling over in bed, or looking up.

“BPPV can significantly increase a person’s risk for falling especially if they have other balance risk factors. This problem is easily identified by the physical therapist that is trained in detecting inner ear problems,” she added.

Fee said a physical therapist with specialized training can provide the most appropriate intervention to reduce or resolve these symptoms in as little as one to three sessions.

Fee said physical therapists can often identify risk factors and provide specific recommendations to improve balance.

“Physical therapists are like coaches, but you have to do the work. In order for your balance to improve, you have to challenge the team!”

Goralnik added, that in many cases, falls and fall-related injuries lead to substantial deficiency with activities of daily living and the need for supportive care for older adults.

The economic burdens from falls are substantial and likely to increase with the growth of the older population, according to Goralnik.

Fall-related health care costs include hospital bills, fees for professional service, and costs of prescription medications, home health services, long-term care facilities, and durable medical equipment.

“Always inform your doctor about recent falls and fall-related injuries,” concluded Gorainik.

It is very important for seniors to discuss any changes of the gait, possible new onset gait unsteadiness, or if they started to experience new musculoskeletal pain with their doctor.

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Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

Preventing falls is critical to maintaining health and quality of life in seniors

Title:

Content: SAFETYLIT WEEKLY UPDATE

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Journal Article

Citation

Meekes WMA, Leemrijse CJ, Korevaar JC, Stanmore EK, van de Goor LIAM. Clin. Interv. Aging 2022; 17: 885-902.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Dove Press)

DOI

10.2147/CIA.S354911

PMID

35686030

PMCID

PMC9171056

Abstract

PURPOSE: Limited information is available concerning primary care providers' encountered barriers and facilitators when implementing falls prevention and providing interventions in a real-life setting. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators when i) implementing a falls risk assessment strategy at GP practices and among community nurses and ii) providing evidence-based falls prevention interventions in a real-life setting to independently living, frail older people.

METHODS: A researcher's journal was maintained during the implementation of a falls risk assessment strategy, which entailed notes from informal conversations with GPs, practice nurses and community nurses. After implementation, two online focus groups with GPs, practice and community nurses, physio- and exercise therapists were conducted. Data were thematically analyzed.

RESULTS: Data were collected from 32 GPs, 13 practice nurses, eight community nurses, nine physiotherapists, and two exercise therapists. The GPs and nurses acknowledged that falls prevention is part of their job, meaningful, and that they have sufficient knowledge and skills to offer falls prevention. Collaboration, a previously implemented care program for older people, resources, reimbursement for interventions, and patients' motivation, awareness and health issues were considered to be important factors for the implementation of falls prevention. Physio- and exercise therapists described collaboration with different disciplines, receiving sufficient referrals, reimbursements, intensity and set-up of the interventions, and patients' motivation, expectations, goals, self-confidence, awareness, and health issues as important factors when providing falls prevention interventions.

CONCLUSION: This study identified care provider-, context-, patient-, and innovation (strategy)-related barriers and facilitators when implementing falls prevention and providing interventions in primary care. Development of a more successful implementation strategy should focus on intensifying collaboration, reimbursement for interventions, availability of resources, and patients' lack of motivation and health issues. Hence, falls prevention may become more structurally applied, reducing a major threat for the quality of life of independently living older people.

Language: en

Keywords

implementation; barriers and facilitators; falls prevention; frail older people; primary care

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What did studies show about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It limits the danger of falls among the elderly.

What do orthopedic specialists say about the benefits of learning Tai Chi?

Excercises like the horse stance in Tai Chi that can help prevent falls.

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

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Scientific studies indicate that exercise programs focused on balance, gait, strength, and functional training can reduce falls and fall-related injuries in older adults.

Title:

Content: Exercise programs meant to prevent falls in seniors may also help prevent injuries caused by falls, according to a new review.

Fall-related injuries are common among seniors and a major cause of long-term pain and disability. They also increase the risk of having to go to a nursing home and have a high economic cost.

The new findings, published online Oct. 29 in the journal bmj.com, suggest that "reducing the risk of falling and improving protective responses during a fall may be an important and feasible means of preventing fractures and other serious injuries in the elderly," the study authors wrote in a journal news release.

Well-designed exercise programs can prevent falls in seniors living at home, but there is a lack of evidence on whether such programs can help prevent fall-related injuries, said French researchers Fabienne El-Khoury and colleagues.

In this review, they analyzed 17 studies that looked at whether fall-prevention exercises lowered seniors' risk of fractures and other injuries caused by falls. More than 4,000 participants were involved in all.

Tai Chi was the exercise in two of the studies, but most of them used gait, balance, strength and functional training, which involves workouts that help people do normal daily activities.

Most of the programs reduced fall-related injuries and appeared to significantly curb falls that lead to fractures, serious injuries and medical care.

Balance training was emphasized in all of the exercises that were effective in preventing falls, the researchers noted.

More information

The U.S. National Institute on Aging has more about older adults and falls.

Latest videos

How doesTai Chi help prevent falls for older people?

It improves the balance of older people.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

What did studies show about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It limits the danger of falls among the elderly.

What do orthopedic specialists say about the benefits of learning Tai Chi?

Excercises like the horse stance in Tai Chi that can help prevent falls.

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

A meta-review of 17 studies including over 4,000 seniors showed most interventions reduced fall injuries and fractures, emphasizing balance training.

How doesTai Chi help prevent falls for older people?

It improves the balance of older people.

What did studies show about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It limits the danger of falls among the elderly.

What do orthopedic specialists say about the benefits of learning Tai Chi?

Excercises like the horse stance in Tai Chi that can help prevent falls.

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

Tai Chi featured in two of these studies and demonstrated similar benefits as other exercise types in lowering fall risk .

How does Tai Chi help people with Parkinson's disease?

It can effectively improve the movement symptoms that may cause falls of elderly patients.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

What benefits does Tai Chi haves for healthy aging?

It helps to improve factors linked to a longer life like balance, mobility, and stability.

What did studies show about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It limits the danger of falls among the elderly.

It improves the balance of older people.

What do orthopedic specialists say about the benefits of learning Tai Chi?

Excercises like the horse stance in Tai Chi that can help prevent falls.

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

Specifically, Tai Chi improves physical stability by enhancing proprioception, muscle strength, flexibility, and balance.

Title:

Content: Seniors exercise at YMCA to improve health

Published: May. 31, 2023 at 2:08 PM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - One of the keys to living a long life is having a healthy lifestyle.

Seniors at the YMCA did exercises tailored to their fitness levels Wednesday, May 31. This included tai chi, an exercise that focuses on mind and body, as well as helps with balance.

“It has completely changed my life. It has made me stronger in my body: I’m straighter, stronger, I can do all of my daily activities like laundry and dishwashing, and everything else that I have to do,” volunteer Palmer Gard said.

The YMCA offers programs and classes for all ages.

Do you have a story idea? Send us your news tip here.

How does Tai Chi help people with Parkinson's disease?

It can effectively improve the movement symptoms that may cause falls of elderly patients.

How doesTai Chi help prevent falls for older people?

It improves the balance of older people.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

What benefits does Tai Chi haves for healthy aging?

It helps to improve factors linked to a longer life like balance, mobility, and stability.

What did studies show about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It limits the danger of falls among the elderly.

It improves the balance of older people.

What do orthopedic specialists say about the benefits of learning Tai Chi?

Excercises like the horse stance in Tai Chi that can help prevent falls.

What health advantages have been linked to regular practice of Tai Chi?

Why did the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention advised elderly people to practice Tai Chi?

Because it can prevent falls that may result in fracture.

It is also useful for people with Parkinson’s disease by improving mobility and coordination and may support cognitive function in dementia patients.

How does Tai Chi help people with Parkinson's disease?

It can effectively improve the movement symptoms that may cause falls of elderly patients.

What are some of the benefits of practicing Tai Chi regularly?

What benefits does Tai Chi haves for healthy aging?

It helps to improve factors linked to a longer life like balance, mobility, and stability.

What have studies shown about Tai Chi's health benefit?

It can effectively improve the movement symptoms of Parkinson's disease that may cause falls of elderly patients.