In certain Asian countries, it is not unusual to see older adults engage in yoga in city parks. Although yoga has been practiced for centuries, the art continues to grow in popularity in the United States today. Yoga offers several benefits for senior citizens.



1. Bolsters Immunity



As the body ages, the immune system may not function as efficiently as it once did. However, yoga can reverse the issue. Researchers in Norway found that when individuals practiced yoga, their immunity function enhanced. The immunity boost was more significant compared to when participating in a more strenuous activity.

Older adults who need help with yoga should consider professional in-home care. Hot Springs home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.



2. Promotes Good Sleep



Seniors often experience musculoskeletal issues that can make it difficult to fall asleep, as well as respiratory issues that cause intermittent waking. However, a group of scientists from Harvard University learned that when people participated in yoga classes for two months, they effectively overcame insomnia. Similar trials discovered that practicing yoga twice a week enabled individuals to enjoy restful sleep and reduced symptoms of fatigue.



3. Enhances Flexibility



When living a sedentary lifestyle, flexibility decreases because muscles are not regularly stretched. Soon, older adults experience discomfort or injury when attempting physical activity. By performing the poses required in yoga, seniors can increase their range of motion with gentle stretches and eventually become more flexible. Yoga poses specifically target the arms, shoulders, back, hips, and hamstrings.



4. Increases Strength



When not regularly participating in physical activity, muscles tend to become weak. However, yoga poses require participants to bear their entire body weight on one leg at a time. During each pose, seniors must remain in the same position for a designated amount of time while concentrating on breathing techniques. This way, muscles become stronger. Because yoga is a low-impact activity, major muscle groups gain strength without being exposed to joint injury.



5. Relieves Stress



Yoga is typically performed in a calm and relaxed atmosphere, and it also requires participants to focus on the moment. The concentration needed to perform breathing techniques can redirect the mind from stressful thoughts. By focusing on the present, older adults do not think about past or future events.

Socializing on a regular basis is another way seniors can relieve stress, stave off boredom, and enjoy a high quality of life. For families living in Hot Springs, AR, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.

6. Detoxifies the Body



While engaged in yoga, blood circulation increases. The blood then carries debris and toxins more quickly to be eliminated. Cells also receive oxygen and nutrients more effectively.



7. Boosts Self Confidence



By boosting their physical health, seniors naturally feel better about themselves. The flexibility and strength gained by practicing yoga also encourages older people to engage in more activities, which can further boost their self-esteem.

Older adults with serious health issues may find it difficult to practice yoga and manage other tasks. Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Hot Springs live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust in professional live-in caregivers to enhance his or her quality of life. Call Home Care Assistance at (501) 764-1312 to find out about our premier in-home care plans and how they can benefit your elderly loved one.