PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) and Yan Chai Hospital Social Services Department recently released the results of their study “Developing and testing the effectiveness of a novel and easy-to-learn Chinese mind-body for frail elders in Hong Kong”. It ascertained that the newly-developed qigong protocol has brought benefits to frail elderly in various aspects. In this issue of Excel@PolyU, Prof. Hector Tsang, Associate Head of RS, talked about the qigong and study findings.

Why is the new qigong protocol called “Yan Chai Yi Jin Ten Section Brocades”?

Because it has integrated the best of two popular health qigong protocols – namely Baduanjin and Yijin Jing, extracting those moves that are suitable for practice by frail elderly.

Has the research team conducted any field test to evaluate its health benefits?

Yes. A total of 116 frail elders participated in the study and were randomly divided into two groups for the study. Among them, 61 participants were asked to practise “Yan Chai Yi Jin Ten Section Brocades” in 60-minute sessions, two times a week for 12 weeks, while the subjects in the control group just spend the time on newspaper reading.

What are the findings?

After three months, it was found that “Yan Chai Yi Jin Ten Section Brocades” health qigong group participants showed significant improvements in cognitive functioning, perceived physical health, activities of daily living, reduction in resting heart rate as well as overall health status.

How can the elderly learn “Yan Chai Yi Jin Ten Section Brocades”? 
This qigong is still being practised in residential care homes and day care centres under Yan Chai Hospital Social Service Department even after the study.

As it is physically less demanding, and can be practised in both standing style and sitting style, frail elders could easily and safely practise the protocol at home. Training Manual and DVD are also available to introduce the novel health qigong protocols for healthcare professionals. Details>>