UCLA Tai Chi in a Community Setting Study

Although a number of studies have examined the effects of Tai Chi in older adult
populations, few have methodically assessed its effects on vitality, fatigue and physical
activity. Some studies have shown that fatigue relates to negative mood and poor
health-related quality of life in older persons.

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese form of calisthenics that utilizes the body's internal energy
(chi), mind, and breathing; which may be a useful exercise for older adults in increasing
their activity level. A twenty-four of Yang style of Tai Chi is a simple form of Tai Chi
that is particularly well-suited for older adults. This proposed study to investigate the
effects of a Tai Chi intervention on decreasing fatigue level, and increasing level of
activity in healthy older adults.

The investigators research group has focused on the Tai Chi as a strategy to reduce stress
and improve sleep, and their preliminary evidence suggest it strongly affects energy level
and vitality. The investigators are focused on taking this intervention into the community
testing its efficacy. The investigators preliminary data shows that Tai Chi is of benefit to
older adults; however, this study will test whether their research findings are
generalizable to community settings.

Tai Chi-naïve participants from Culver City Senior Center will receive a 10-week Tai Chi.
The investigators will compare this group to a wait-list control group. All subjects will
receive a packet of questionnaires of pre- and post-intervention vitality, fatigue and
health-related quality of life. Subjects will also be given an activity monitor to wear for
2 days before they start the Tai Chi class and for 2 days after they complete the class, to
determine if there is a change in general physical activity level.