Yoga for Seniors: A qualitative exploration

Physical activity is an important component of health for all individuals including older adults. However, older adults often times must take specific precautions when engaging in physical activities because of the greater probability of having a compromising chronic condition or illness. A recent qualitative study interviewed clinical health professionals who treat senior citizens and also yoga therapists/instructors who use yoga postures and techniques to improve health and wellness of older adults. Results identified that there was a misperception of yoga practices among some clinical health professionals. The first misperception was that older adults should not practice yoga because they are too old. The second misperception was that only older adults who do not have chronic health conditions can practice yoga. The third misperception was that yoga cannot be practiced by seniors who have mobility and walking issues. Overall, there seems to be a knowledge gap among many clinical health professionals who treat older adults about the benefits of yoga practice. Yoga therapists were very knowledgeable about which poses and what modifications of postures must be carried out for older adults with common chronic conditions. Future study will examine the specific benefits of yoga for older adults and also in developing health education opportunities for clinical professionals working with older adults regarding the benefits of yoga for senior citizens.