Yoga

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The Benefits of Yoga for the Aging and Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract:

As the global population continues to age, promoting healthy aging and enhancing the well-being of older adults has become a priority. Yoga, a holistic practice that combines physical movement, breath work, and mindfulness, has gained popularity as a complementary approach to promote health and well-being in the aging population. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the evidence on the benefits of yoga for the aging and elderly population.

Results:

A total of 25 studies (19 RCTs and 6 non-randomized studies) were included in the systematic review, involving a total of 2,132 participants aged 50 years and older. The studies examined a wide range of health outcomes, including physical function, flexibility, strength, balance, cardiovascular health, mental health, sleep quality, and quality of life. Meta-analysis of RCTs showed that yoga interventions had significant positive effects on physical function, flexibility, balance, and sleep quality. Non-randomized studies also reported positive effects of yoga on various health outcomes, but the quality of evidence was generally lower due to the risk of bias.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted using major electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, from inception until the latest search date in September 2021. The search strategy included keywords

Conclusion:

The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that yoga can provide significant benefits for the aging and elderly population in terms of physical function, flexibility, balance, and sleep quality. However, more high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to further establish the efficacy of yoga for the aging population, as well as to explore its effects on other health outcomes. Healthcare providers and caregivers may consider incorporating yoga as a complementary approach to promote health and well-being in the aging and elderly population.