Conference Notes on Teaching the Elderly or Handicapped

Art of Teaching

By Hope Ridley, San Mateo, CA

TCC improves balance for seniors. If they fall, less likely to break bones–bones strengthened by doing TCC.

Sitting–feet on ground to feel grounded–keep concentration on bringing chi up through legs (mentally)–might feel discomfort where no feelings were before.

In wheelchairs–could skip taffies unless patient could sit forward away from wheelchair arms.

Cardiac–move slowly–start with modified breathing–do mentally.

Lift toes and then heels–if not physically–do it mentally. Sometimes it feels worse before it feels better. Prolonged pain or soreness–check with Doctor.

Arthritis class–1 hour they will be exhausted–can meet in hospital or arthritis center. In Yuma they charge $85 for 12 hours of class. Minimum of 10 people. Arthritis Foundation might pay. $200 private-8 lessons (1-1 1/2 hrs.)

Smaller movements possible if necessary. Or teacher do pure form and students do what they can. Demonstrate movements standing. Can show sitting down afterwards to identify with their challenges. Teach focus on opposite hand. Move foot forward (whatever side you’re on) then left toe, etc. Constant repetition. Sit on one cheek and then the other.

Unsteady on feet. Instruct–be centered. Step out before beginning hands. Grounded first. If taffies too hard, stand and just do arms. Then add waist twist. Then add weight change on legs.

Pulley–one arm only for awhile, then try to add. Also with passing clouds.

Sitting–Chi seems to be higher up. Be sure they bring focus to tan t’ien for low emphasis before they stand up. Also breathe deeply into the belly.

Moves done leaning against table (table behind) still allows a waist turn.

Intention of purpose is a lot. Positive programming.