HELPING ELDERS LIVING WITH PAIN (HELP): A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED PILOT STUDY

Abstract

Accumulating evidence supports that chronic pain is associated with poorer cognitive function and mobility, and fall risk in older adults. This study investigated the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial of a Tai Chi intervention in older adults with multisite pain who are at risk for falls. Adults aged ≥65y with multisite pain (≥ 2 sites) who reported falling in the past year or using a cane or walker were recruited from the Boston area communities through mailed invitations, community flyers, local newspaper and TV ads, and social media. Participants were randomized to either a light physical exercise (stretching, walking and weight training) program or a mind-body exercise (Tai Chi) program, offered twice weekly for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of the Tai Chi intervention. Of the 176 adults screened, 85 were eligible, and 54 enrolled (average age=75 ± 8y; 96% white; 76% female). The dropout rate was 15% (12% for light physical exercise and 18% for Tai Chi). For those completing the study, exercise class attendance rate was 79% (82% for light physical exercise and 76% for Tai Chi). The main reasons for dropouts and absences included family obligations, transportation challenges, difficulty performing Tai Chi movements, musculoskeletal pain, falls, and other health complications. This study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of conducting a larger randomized controlled Tai Chi trial in older adults with multisite pain and at risk for falls. Data collected and challenges encountered will inform future research. (Supported by NIH Grant R21 AG043883)