Effects of Tai Chi on balance and fall prevention in healthy older adults: a randomized controlled meta-analysis

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Tai Chi on balance and fall risk in healthy older adults through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across international and Chinese databases to identify relevant studies published between 2004 and 2024. A total of 21 RCTs were included in the analysis, comparing Tai Chi with non-exercise control groups. Various balance measures, such as balance performance and fall risk, were assessed. Results: The meta-analysis revealed that Tai Chi significantly improved balance and reduced fall risk among older adults. Specifically, improvements were observed in several key measures, including balance ability, walking speed, and confidence in preventing falls. Conclusion: These findings suggest that Tai Chi is an effective intervention for enhancing balance and reducing fall risk in healthy older adults, highlighting its potential as a valuable preventive strategy for falls in the aging population. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420251004905.