Elderly man practicing yoga by a quiet lake in a natural setting

Study on the effect of yoga on seniors

Barry S Oken et al.

January 2006

Yoga

Researchers from Oregon Health and Science University and the Julie Lawrence Yoga Center conducted a randomized, six-month study to determine the effect of yoga on cognitive function, fatigue, mood and quality of life in seniors.

The sample consisted of 135 healthy volunteers aged 65-85 and was divided into three groups who either practiced hatha yoga or walking or were placed on the waiting list.

At the beginning of the study and after six months, various cognitive performances were tested using the Stroop test and quantitative electroencephalogram; SF-36, the mood scale (POMS), MFI (Multi-Dimensional Fatigue Inventory) and selected physical abilities were also analyzed.

No change was observed with regard to cognitive performance. However, the results showed that in the yoga group, physical abilities as well as a number of aspects relating to quality of life such as well-being, energy and fatigue improved as a result of yoga.

The most important information on the study at a glance

Indications: Mental health, physical health
Institution: Department of Neurology and Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
Title: Study on the effect of yoga on seniors
Brief description: A study shows: Yoga significantly increases physical abilities, well-being, energy and overall quality of life in senior citizens.
Original title: Randomized, controlled, six-month trial of yoga in healthy seniors: effects on cognition and quality of life
Link to the study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16454146/