Tai Chi Chuan Improves Functionality and Quality of Life in Elderly Men With Low Bone Mineral Density

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose was to assess the effect of Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) on functional capacity (FC) and quality of life (QoL) in elderly men with low bone mineral density (BMD). METHODS: This quasi-experimental, controlled blinded trial evaluated 41 senior men (≥ 60 years), divided into two groups: control group 1 – G1 (TCC; n = 20; 69.2 ± 6.2 years) and control group 2 – G2 (control; n = 21; 69.0 ± 5.7 years). The BMD (of lumbar spine and femur neck) was assessed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). FC was assessed for aerobic endurance, for upper and lower limbs strength and flexibility, for static, dynamic and functional balance testes, and for risk of falls. QoL was assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire (MOS 36-item Short-Form Health Survey). G1 practiced the 24-form Yang style of TCC, for 12 weeks twice a week on low intensity; G2 did not practice oriented physical activity. RESULTS: TCC practitioners had significantly higher scores for aerobic endurance, upper and lower limbs strength, and dynamic balance. In terms of QoL, values were significantly better in total score and aspects such as FC, general health, vitality, and mental health. DISCUSSION: TCC was proven beneficial to FC and QoL scores, which adds evidence for its practice by elderly men with low BMD. CONCLUSION: TCC training is effective in improving FC and QoL in elderly men with low BMD.

Keywords

• tai chi chuan
• aged
• osteoporosis
• quality of life