Purpose:
The study aims to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effects of a simplified 10-step Tai-chi programme to enable people with dementia to improve their motor performance.
Methods:
This study is a two-arm, single-blinded pilot cluster randomized controlled trial that was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03341091). Four community health centres that provide dementia care services were recruited through convenience sampling. Each was viewed as one cluster and was randomized to either the Tai-chi or the control groups. 26 dyads of people with dementia and their family caregivers were recruited, with mean ages of 82.2 (SD 7.43) and 51.3 (SD 18.97) respectively. The experimental group received a 16-week 10-step simplified Tai-chi training programme in which additional measures (such as multiple sensory cues) were implemented to enhance participants’ engagement. The control group (dyadic) took part in group recreational activities organized by the community centres. The main outcome measures include the feasibility assessment and the preliminary effects. The feasibility assessment included recruitment, attrition, adherence to and engagement in the Tai-chi programme. The preliminary effects were assessed by the participants’ different mobility performance tests.
Results:
Preliminary feasibility was established, with acceptable recruitment (57.8%) and high attendance rates (80.8%), participants demonstrating positive engagement at Tai-chi training sessions, and no adverse incidents. However, attrition was relatively high (38.5%), and mean home practice time decreased between weeks 8 and 16 during the programme. Most of the motor performance tests showed slight but insignificant improvement in the Tai-chi group compared to the controls.
Conclusion:
The dyadic approach with additional measures (such as a gradual introduction of the new steps of the Tai-chi programme, adoption of a slow-paced and relaxing learning environment, and multiple sensory cues) added in this simplified 10-step Tai-chi programme showed feasibility for community-dwelling people with dementia. However, stronger reinforcements and supports for family caregivers are essential to sustain adherence throughout the programme.