Cross-Country Pilot Test of a Chair-Based Acupunch Exercise Program Among Older Adults in Long-Term Care

Abstract

Background:

Cross-cultural differences are often observed in traditional Chinese medicine practices. To examine the effectiveness of such interventions, a cross-country comparison was conducted using samples from Eastern and Western populations.

Objective:

This study evaluated the effectiveness and efficacy of a chair-based acupunch exercise program, Vitality Acupunch, in improving functional fitness and activities of daily living (ADL) among long-term care residents in 2 countries.

Methods:

This quasi-experimental pilot study included 80 participants from Taiwan (treatment n = 23; control n = 17) and the United States (treatment n = 24; control n = 16). Treatment groups received a standardized 40-minute chair-based exercise program 3 times per week for 6 months, delivered by trained instructors. Physical fitness indicators (handgrip strength, upper and lower body strength, upper and lower body flexibility, shoulder joint mobility, and lung function) and ADL were assessed at baseline and at 3rd and 6th month.

Results:

The Taiwanese treatment group showed significant improvements in nearly all outcomes (all P < .05), except lower body strength (Wald χ² = 5.96, P = .051). The US treatment group demonstrated significant improvement only in handgrip strength (Wald χ² = 25.65, P < .001). Compared with the US group, Taiwanese participants achieved significantly greater gains in lower body flexibility, shoulder mobility, and ADL performance (all P < .05).

Conclusion:

The chair-based acupunch exercise program was effective for long-term care residents in both countries. However, cross-country differences suggest potential cultural influences on treatment response, with Taiwanese participants demonstrating greater overall benefit.