Purpose: The aim of this study was to ascertain whether ba-duan-jin (BDJ) can improve balance and enhance the quality of life among older adults.
Design: This pilot study was designed as a single group pre-post comparison test.
Methods: Sixteen older adults were qualified and recruited for this study at local retirement communities. Assessments for pre- and postintervention among the subjects included Single-Leg Stance, Chair Rising Test, Tinetti Balance Test, Modified Falls Efficacy Scale, and 12-Item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire for quality of life.
Findings: After 12 weeks of BDJ training, significant improvements were identified in Single-Leg Stance, Tinetti Balance Test, Modified Falls Efficacy Scale, and 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (all p < .01); however not for the Chair Rising Test (p > .05).
Conclusion: The results indicate that BDJ can improve balance, lower extremity strength, quality of life, and decrease fear of falling among older adults.
Clinical relevance: BDJ is an effective rehabilitation training method and can improve balance and motor function among older people. Rehabilitation nursing plays a key role in functional rehabilitation of older people.