The Effects of a Calligraphy and Exercise Program on Korean Elders' Self-esteem, Stress, Quality of Life and Physical Health

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was conduct to develop a calligraphy and exercise program and examine its effects on the self-esteem, stress, quality of life and physical health of the elderly in a community health post in Korea. METHOD: The subjects consisted of 43 elders (experimental group 20, control group 23) who were attending the program of a community health post. The experimental group participated in the calligraphy and exercise program for 12 weeks (3 times a week, 120 minutes a session). Data were collected before and after the program. RESULTS: 1) The experimental group showed significant improvement in self-esteem and quality of life and significant reduction in stress compared to the control group. 2) The experimental group and the control group were not significantly different in muscle strength and flexibility. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the calligraphy and exercise program for old adults can improve their psychological health and quality of life.