Trainers Course & DVDs details etc at end of this article
This evidence based intervention uses a program of Applied Tai Chi for Healthier Ageing (including Balance and Stability) it is easily learned and has all the information for non-expert tai chi exercise leaders to implement these evidence based exercises, including for those who are less mobile eg in wheelchairs. This program can be introduced as single simple techniques or developed into a group exercise class that engages the participants and motivates them to continue practicing.
Many Queensland healthcare providers have successfully implemented Applied Tai Chi exercises in their workplace following their completion of this course.
The evidence-based program appears readily scalable and exportable, with potential for a substantial clinical and public health effect.
Exercise has been shown to benefit frail older people. Exercise that includes mindful balance components, along with stress management and relaxation techniques, tends to have much more positive outcomes. This program also addresses mental health, depression, chronic disease management and the ‘Fear of falling’.
The consensus among practitioners is that Traditional Tai Chi is difficult to learn. Again the Applied Tai Chi approach is to make it easy for anyone of any level.
Applied Tai Chi is modifiable and adaptable to all levels e.g. sitting, supported or free standing. It has been an effective and sustainable program when implemented by Allied Health workers who were trained as non-expert leaders in the specific Applied Tai Chi Falls Prevention exercises.
It is good to be able to have a qualified Tai Chi instructor to come in to a facility to conduct sessions but this is often financially unviable and unsustainable especially for more than one session per week and of not enough frequency to have a greater effect. Although their skill level is higher, they do not have a rapport or knowledge of individual clients and their conditions and limitations, or special needs. So the best option is to have a trained staff member to conduct more frequent regular sessions, even small individualised exercise practice breaks at each available opportunity.
Training develops the competency of non-expert class leaders (Allied Health workers already have an understanding of safety requirements and considerations for the elderly)
Group leaders do NOT need to be experts in Tai Chi, but experts in applying the Applied Tai Chi principles to the client’s needs.
Literally thousands of people have now participated in these programs, mainly held in Queensland with many held in isolated and economically challenged communities.
The above was presented at the Diversional & RecreationTherapy Australia National Conference in Brisbane QLD
Rod Ferguson, has presented Tai Chi at five “Australian and New Zealand Falls Prevention Society” conferences; Brisbane, Dunedin, Adelaide, Sydney & Melbourne. These sessions were well received and some of the participants have gone on to implement successful, effective and sustainable programs across the continuum of care. As well as presenting at the Dementia & Recreation Conference in Melbourne, and the Geriatrics Conference in Dunedin. Rod was was also selected as one of three Tai Chi experts worldwide to present at both the International Tai Chi Symposiums in the USA (2009 & 2014).
TRAINERS COURSE “Applied Tai Chi” for Healthier Ageing incorporating; Chronic Disease Management and Fall Prevention. Including the NEW ‘A Safe Seated Program for Those Less-mobile’ These courses are conducted regularly in Brisbane and other areas by demand, with Master Rod >> Click here to see more details
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