Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention Program

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention Program

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention combines slow movement, deep breathing, and focused intention to help people improve strength, balance and posture while helping prevent falls.

Who can benefit from this program?

• Adults with or without arthritis, rheumatic diseases or related musculoskeletal conditions.
• People with mild, moderate and severe joint involvement and back pain.
• Adults who have a higher risk of falling.

This evidence-based program was developed by Dr. Paul Lam at the Tai Chi for Health Institute (TCHI). Workshops focus on breathing, body structure, movement control, situation awareness, and weight shifting while using Sun style Tai Chi. Studies have shown Tai Chi is proven to improve cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, prevent falls and help people who have arthritis. The workshop is highly participatory, and each participant is guided through activities that can be adjusted to suit their physical condition and needs.

We offer this free 10-week evidence-based workshop that includes:

• Warm-up and cool-down exercises
• One or two movements per lesson that lead up to completing six basic core movements and six advanced movements
• Breathing techniques
• Tai chi principles relating to improving physical and mental balance

For information on how participating in the workshops can help you manage your arthritis and reduce your risk for falls, please visit: https://taichiforhealthinstitute.org/programs/tai-chi-for-fall-prevention

Tai chi reduces blood pressure better than aerobic exercise, study finds: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2024/02/14/1231232197/tai-chi-aerobics-exercise-blood-pressure-hypertension-mindfulness

Organizations and groups are also encouraged to contact the Nursing Division to schedule a free Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention Workshop for their staff/clients.

Sponsored By:

Niagara County Department of Health - Nursing Division and Niagara County Office for the Aging

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS (2024)

LOCKPORT:
(Class has reached capacity; additional dates TBA)



NORTH TONAWANDA:
(Class has reached capacity; additional dates TBA)