Developing and Testing the Effectiveness of a Novel Health Qigong for Frail Elders in Hong Kong: A Preliminary Study
Author: Tsang, H.W.H., Lee, J.L.C., Au, D.W.H., Wong, K.K.W., & Lai, K.W.
Journal: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Abstract:
Eight-Section Brocades and Yijin Jing consist of some routine movements that are too difficult for frail elders. A novel health qigong protocol was developed and its effectiveness for frail elders was examined using a randomized clinical trial (RCT). An expert panel performed functional anatomy analysis and safety field test prior to the RCT.The experimental group ( = 61, 83 ± 6 yr) was given a 12-week qigong exercise program, while the comparison group ( = 55, 84 ± 6 yr) participated in a newspaper reading program with the same duration and frequency. Pre-, mid-, post-, and follow-up assessments were conducted. At 12 weeks, the qigong group had significant improvements in thinking operations ( = 4.05, = .02) and significant reduction of resting heart rate ( = 3.14, = .045) as compared to the newspaper reading group. A trend of improvements in grip strength and a decreasing trend of depression levels were observed among the qigong group. Significant perceived improvements in physical health ( = 13.01, = .001), activities of daily living ( = 5.32, = .03), and overall health status ( = 15.26, = .0001) were found. There are improvements in some aspects of psychosocial, cognitive, physical, and physiological domains. Clinical applications and possibilities for further research are discussed.