Aging brings many changes for the body. Mental as well as physical changes can affect a variety of daily functions that came easier at a younger age. One important aspect of staying healthy and avoiding injury is maintaining balance and strength. Increasing in popularity is an ancient Chinese exercise called Tai Chi that focuses on constant weight shifts that train balance and body awareness. The Wesley Rehabilitation Center, 2235 Millersport Highway, Amherst, NY, is a not-for-profit affiliate of Beechwood Continuing Care and provides short-term sub-acute rehabilitation and outpatient therapies. For balance improvements, the Center offers progressive resisted exercises for the trunk and extremities, as well as the Swiss ball and standing balance activities.

Leslie Svennson, a Wesley Rehabilitation Center certified physical therapist, said it is most beneficial to practice Tai Chi for 20 to 30 minutes at least four times a week and said that as with every exercise, improvements depend on how often the exercise is performed.

“Tai Chi improves core strength, flexibility, posture and balance which reduces the risk of falling and injuries from falling,” Svennson said. In September, Svennson will begin teaching classes at Beechwood for residents, staff and the community. For more information call 716-472-8537.

Tai Chi is especially beneficial to seniors. It is estimated that one out of every three seniors falls at least once a year. For more information, call 716-504-1000 or visit www.beechwoodcare.org.