NCDOH offering free tai chi for arthritis and fall prevention course

Submitted by the Niagara County Department of Health

The Niagara County Department of Health nursing division, in partnership with the Niagara County Office for the Aging, is offering a free tai chi for arthritis and fall prevention course. This 10-week workshop starts Oct. 16 and is scheduled for 11 a.m. to noon Mondays and Thursdays at Lockport Memorial Hospital’s Community Room, 6001 Shimer Drive, Lockport.

This evidence-based program developed by Dr. Paul Lam at the Tai Chi for Health Institute (TCHI), focuses on sun-style tai chi. It’s been proven to improve cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, prevent falls, and help people who have arthritis. Workshops focus on breathing, body structure, movement control, situation awareness, and weight shifting. The workshop is highly participatory, and each participant is guided through activities that can be adjusted to suit their physical condition and needs.

Adults with arthritis and/or are at risk for falls can register for the tai chi for arthritis and fall prevention workshop by calling Cathy Hoy-Patterson, MS, adult education, public health educator, at 716-278-1900.

For information on how participating in the workshops can help you manage your arthritis and reduce your risk for falls, visit https://taichiforhealthinstitute.org/programs/tai-chi-for-fall-prevention/.

Organizations and groups are also encouraged to contact the nursing division to schedule a free tai chi for arthritis and fall prevention workshop for their staff/clients.