Many times, our elderly loved ones begin to lose their musculature, strength, and flexibility as they age for various reasons. Medications, medical issues that do not allow for vigorous exercise, fatigue, osteoporosis, and other ailments can limit what our elders can do. Tai Chi is a way for seniors to regain their strength, mobility, and flexibility. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese form of exercise that focuses on easy, gentle movements that can create an increase in the aerobic capacity of seniors, cause a decrease in stress and blood pressure, and even can increase joint function and balance (Bonifonte, 2004).
Jim Adamik is the owner and senior instructor of AV Tai Chi and Qigong in the Antelope Valley, California. He has spent the last ten years practicing many different techniques such as Tai Chi, Qigong, Yoga, and Meditation and has been certified as a Tai Chi instructor. He currently offers free instruction for seniors at the Antelope Valley Senior Center, Lancaster Adult Day Health Care, and the Antelope Valley Retirement Manor. These classes are extremely beneficial for seniors, as they are tailored to seniors who have limited mobility, cognitive or physical impairments and other ailments that do not allow them their full range of motion. The exercises consist of modified warm-up exercises, movement forms, and meditation exercises such as breathing and center one’s focus (Adamik, 2010).
Tai Chi is a form of exercise that can be beneficial in many ways, not only does it increase the mobility of seniors, it can help in the reduction of falls, overall improved health, and aid in the prevention of chronic disease (Gorman, 2002). It offers seniors hope that they can once again feel rejuvenated, strong, fit, younger, and more mobile. Through slow, deliberate movements, breathing and stretching our elderly population can once again be in good physical condition.
For more information, regarding programs in the Antelope Valley, please contact Jim Adamik at 661-675-8583 or visit his website at http://http//www.av-taichi-qigong.com/ScheduleOfClasses.html
References:
Adamik, J. (2010). AV Tai Chi and Qigong. Retrieved from http://www.av-taichi-qigong.com.
Bensing, K. (2004). T'ai Chi for Seniors: How to Gain Flexibility, Strength, and Inner Peace (Book). Library Journal, 129(1), 58. Retrieved from Academic Search Alumni Edition database.
Gorman, C. (2002). Why Tai Chi Is the Perfect Exercise. Time Europe, 160(8), 57. Retrieved from Academic Search Alumni Edition database.
Comments
Great article!
I know so many people who have seen a difference in there strength, mobility, and flexibility after taking these classes. Thanks for sharing this information with others so that they can benefit too!
I've have recently become confined to a walker or a wheelchair, would Tai Chi still benefit me if I can only do it while sitting?
The good thing about this program is that it is low impact and can accommodate those with joint issues.
Hiroshi, that is an excellent question. The benefit of Tai Chi, and especially the way that Jim Adamik teaches it, is the adaptability of it to any level of physical fitness. Many of the individuals who participate in the Tai Chi class at the Adult Day Health Care are wheelchair bound, the movements can be adapted to sitting positions quite easily. I have personally witnessed Jim's class and he can adapt the poses to meet any needs, even a participant who was a quadrapeligic, could participate in the breathing exercises. No matter what level of fitness, sitting or standing, Tai Chi can benefit all who participate.
Thank you all again for your comments,
Nichole Pool
Antelope Valley Elder Care Examiner
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!