YOGA IMPROVES QUALITY OF LIFE
Science has recognized the value of the mind body connection in healing. Recently more studies have focused on the value in relation to the aging process. As humans reach advanced age, many of the daily functions we take for granted begin to decline. This includes physical ability and cognitive function.
Researchers at Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) explored the mind body connection in senior citizens. They wanted to determine if the practice of yoga, which combines physical activity with meditation, could affect cognitive function.
Their objective was to measure the effect that a daily Hatha yoga practice on cognitive decline, fatigue, mood, and quality of life. Physical ability was also assessed. Over 135 men and women age 65-85 were randomized to one of three groups: Hatha yoga, walking, or on a stand-by list (no activity). The study ran 6 months.
Results were determined by using a battery of tests covering cognitive function, alertness, and attention, quality of life, mood states, fatigue level, as well as a EEG and physical exam.
They found that members in the yoga group had increased quality of life and increased physical ability after the 6-month treatment period. There was no significant effect on cognitive function compared to the other two groups from doing yoga for 6 months. Energy was reported as increased by members in the yoga group compared to no activity.
The study does not show a direct effect of yoga practice on cognitive function. However, one cannot dismiss the indirect influence that quality of life and increased physical ability may have on cognitive function in the elderly.
