UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA COLLEGE OF NURSING STUDY
The University of Arizona College of Nursing is seeking stroke survivors to participate in a free 12 week program of tai chi to determine if this low-impact exercise is effective in improving physical functioning or quality of life following a stroke.
The "Tai Chi Exercise for Stroke Survivors Study", conducted by Assistant Professor Ruth E. Taylor-Pileae, PhD, R.N. is looking for Tucson-area adults aged 50 or older who suffered a stroke at least three months ago, and who are currently enrolled in, or previously had stroke rehabilitation.
Physical activity and exercise training are important aspects of stroke rehabilitation to reduce disability, and most rehab programs traditionally include western forms of exercise such as cycling or walking, Dr. Taylor-Piliae explained
Tai chi has been shown to improve balance, strength, flexibility, aerobic endurance, and quality of life in research studies involving non-stroke populations (e.g. frail or fall-prone, chronic heart failure). This U of A study will examine the effect of a 12 week tai chi exercise intervention on physical functioning, quality of life, and exercise behavior among stroke survivors, compared to Silver Sneakers tm and traditional rehab.
Study participants will be randomly assigned to three months of free tai chi instruction from a tai chi master in Tucson, SilverSneakers classes taught by a certified instructor, or receive weekly phone calls with recommendations for participating in a community-based physical activity program. Participants will be evaluated for balance, strength, walking speed and aerobic endurance at the beginning of the study, immediately after the intervention at 12 weeks, and at a 24-week follow-up.
This study is being funded by an American Heart Association National Scientist Development Grant and a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Nurse Faculty Scholar Grant.
CONTACT DR. RUTH TAYLOR-PILIAE PhD. R.N. AT
rtaylor@nursing.arizona.edu 520 626-4881
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