Rapid conversion of Tai Chi classes from face-to-face to virtual during the COVID-19 pandemic: A quality improvement project

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to examine the feasibility of rapidly converting a Tai Chi program for older Veterans from face-to-face to virtual classes. Methods: Eighteen Veterans attending our face-to-face Tai Chi course were invited to transition to virtual classes. Feasibility was defined as the ability of program staff and participants to successfully connect and complete the initial and subsequent classes by VA Video Connect (VVC) with little to no technical difficulties, participant ability to participate in the course without safety concerns, and favorable feedback from participants and program staff. Results: Nine of 18 Veterans agreed to transition to the virtual program and attended a median (interquartile range) of 11 (4–15) classes; they were younger (62.7 + 11.5 vs. 70.5 + 7.0 years, p