Evaluating the impact of tai chi therapy on stress reduction among older adults

This study investigates the effectiveness of Tai Chi therapy in reducing stress among older adults in selected community areas of Mehsana District. A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design was used with 60 participants aged 60-80, divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group practiced Tai Chi therapy under supervision for 14 days, while the control group received no intervention. Stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) before and after the intervention. Results showed a significant reduction in stress in the experimental group, with the mean pre-test score of 27.2 dropping to 10.1 post-intervention. In contrast, the control group showed no significant change. The t-test results confirmed Tai Chi's effectiveness in reducing stress (t = 10.43, p < 0.05) for the experimental group, with no significant association between stress reduction and demographic variables. These findings support Tai Chi as a beneficial intervention for managing stress among older adults.