OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effects of Ai Chi in one group of elderly people in relation to balance, quality of life and functionality. METHODS: We selected 20 elderly people, mean age 68,95 (±7,42) years, that were submitted to Ai Chi technique. The elderly were evaluation after and before exercises program, for 12 weeks, 45 minutes each section, twice a week, by the following scales: Independence Function Measure (IFM), Berg Scale (Brazilian version), and SF-36, for quality of life. The study was made at Ibirapuera University warm pool (33-34° C). RESULTS: There was increase in balance before and after Ai Chi application (p < 0,003), but there was not increase of measure of functional independence (p < 0,10) and quality of life (p < 0,38). CONCLUSION: The Ai Chi technique when applied to elderly people provided an increase on balance. The other evaluations did not show statistic results.
Hydrotherapy; Balance postural; Quality of life; Elderly people; Treatment
