Yoga for Alzheimer Patients

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive form of dementia that causes brain cells to degenerate and waste away, resulting in problems with memory, thinking, language, and behavior.Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest task. In most people with the disease those with the late –onset type symptoms first appear in this mid -60’s and it’s very rare. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s and its devastating effects. But incorporating a complementary approach, such as yoga, into Alzheimer's care, may help with some of the symptoms and challenges of the disease. Modern yoga incorporates poses, breathing exercises, and meditation. It's often described as a mind-body intervention (MBI), meaning it focuses on the relationship between the brain, mind, body, and behavior and their effect on health and disease. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), research suggests that yoga may reduce stress, support good health habits, and improve mental-emotional health, sleep, and balance. Most yoga for Alzheimer patients involves gentle movements performed in a slow, easy manner. Classes tend to be shorter than a typical yoga session, generally lasting anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. Sequences can be tailored to an individual's physical capabilities and motor skills. Instructors never force movements and participants are encouraged to do what they can. This can help an individual with Alzheimer's feel a sense of self-determination and empowerment. For those with moderate or severe dementia, or those who may have issues with balance or are unable to sit on the floor or mat, chair yoga may be a good option. In chair yoga, you either do the poses from a seated position or stand using the chair as support. Basic yoga poses, such as Mountain pose, Prayer pose, or any of the various Warrior poses, is adapted so that you can do them from a seated position for chair yoga. Seated or standing, you can still benefit from improved posture, increased flexibility of the hips and strengthening of legs, ankles, and feet. Yoga classes designed for individuals with Alzheimer's often emphasize the mindfulness teachings of yoga in addition to the physical movements.