The effect of adherence to a Tai Chi intervention on quality of life of older people living with dementia

Background/Objectives: Adherence to exercise programs is required to reap their established benefits and to sustain Quality of Life (QoL). This study explored People Living with Dementia’s (PLWD) adherence to a Tai Chi exercise program and its effects on their QoL. The study included assessment of factors affecting adherence to a Tai Chi exercise intervention, causes of nonadherence, and effect of adherence on PLWD’s QoL. Methods: This study was part of a randomized controlled trial where 41 community-dwelling PLWD received a Tai Chi exercise intervention in addition to usual care for 20 weeks. The measures used in this study included PLWD’s QoL, global cognitive function, moderate physical activity, intention and confidence to attend classes, record of PLWD’s and their carers’ health conditions, and percentages of PLWD’s Tai Chi class attendance and home practice during the intervention phase. Multiple linear regression, bivariate correlation, and independent sample t-test analyses were conducted to evaluate associations between these variables. Results: PLWD’s overall percentage of class attendance, M (SD) = 69.19 (29.95), demonstrated high adherence. Moreover, QoL of highly adherent PLWD was significantly higher than low adherents. Among all variables, PLWD’s and carers’ health conditions (β = −0.64; p < .001, β = −0.38; p < .001, respectively) were the dominating factors that reduced PLWD’s Tai Chi adherence, while PLWD’s moderate physical activity at baseline (β = 0.27; p = .02) was significant positive predictor. Significance/Implications: PLWD’s and their carers’ health issues must be addressed to enhance PLWD’s exercise adherence and sustain good QoL.