Role Of Yoga In The Lives Of Patients Of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Unfortunately, there is no cure, having said that, there are measures you can take that can help you prevent the condition from developing in the first place. Also, certain activities like eating healthy, doing yoga, etc. ensures the highest possible quality of life for the individual suffering from dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive condition meaning patients slowly lose their abilities to carry out even the most simple tasks of going grocery shopping, cooking, eating, etc.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for about two-thirds of cases in older adults, and affects how people feel, act, and function, and also takes a toll on the physical health. The signs of Alzheimer’s mainly include gradual loss of memory and communication skills, and a reduction in the ability to think and reason effectively. People may need support for everyday tasks. This is where assisted living, specialized memory care can play a big role in improving their quality of life. Memory care is considered the best form of senior living in Anthem for individuals dealing with dementia. 

Practicing yoga can offer a range of benefits for Alzheimer’s patients, such as

1. Relaxation and stress management to deal with anxiety and confusion (depression, anxiety psychosis, agitation, aggression, confusion and sleep disturbances are some behavioral problems associated with dementia, around 30% to 90% of patients with dementia suffer from such behavioral disorders)
2. Engagement with oneself
3. Body awareness, which helps develop confidence, calm and balance
4. Flexibility and range of motion
5. Opportunities to easily express oneself
6. Opportunities for socialization that’ll keep their spirits high
7. An immensely fun activity
8. Balanced mood
9. Core strength that improves balance and mobility

These benefits can be felt almost right away making yoga one of the most effective activities for seniors. Older adults should make sure to practice yoga regularly to sustain the benefits over the long-term.

Do consult with your loved one’s doctor prior to putting him on any exercise regimen. Yoga must be performed in the supervision of an expert instructor, which one can learn from home or can consider group classes (for a more immersive experience). Someone new to yoga will start out with a gentle class that are much slower paced, leaving plenty of time and space to get accustomed to the various postures unique to the individual and also to the new way of living with yoga being a vital part of daily life.

Some components you can expect to find in a gentle yoga class for Alzheimer’s patients include

1. Breathing exercises
2. Physical postures
3. Relaxation techniques

With an expert instructor in place, it will become easy for your older adult to make the necessary adjustments and modifications. Also, they will help find a particular expression of a pose that varies from individual to individual, and provide necessary guidance for any modifications or adaptations that is required to feel comfortable. It’s also wise to hold a conversation with your loved one’s teacher in regards to their needs and comfort zones so that they can reap good benefits out of the classes.

Yoga can help lay a foundation for a flourishing lifestyle, so it’s time to leverage it.