Yoga may be more than just a great way to relax. Recent research on yoga, meditation, and memory suggests such relaxation techniques may prevent—or even reverse—memory loss in some seniors with dementia-related conditions when included as part of a comprehensive therapeutic program.
Reduces Stress & Confusion
Yoga has multiple benefits when it comes to senior health. The relaxed nature of the movements can reduce the stress that sometimes results from confusion associated with memory loss. Caregivers can help seniors apply yoga and meditation techniques to:
- Manage stressful situations that tend to come up throughout the day
- Take a break from a moment of frustration and confusion
- Perform some daily tasks with greater ease (since some yoga moves can strengthen muscles around joints)
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional
elderly home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Provides Another Focus for Seniors
Seniors who have some type of memory issues often experience depression that may increase the severity of the impairment or, according to a Rush University study, increase the risk of cognitive decline. By making yoga a regular activity, caregivers can give seniors something to focus on besides their health issues and personal concerns. Yoga can also be a group activity, which gives seniors an opportunity to meet people and develop new friendships.
Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of
at-home care. Winnipeg families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
Encourages Them to Participate on Different Levels
One study on yoga and seniors with memory issues found that even when individuals were limited in how much they could participate, they still found some way to be a part of the activity. Some seniors would pat their legs or follow movements with their eyes, suggesting involvement on any level may have a positive impact on participants.
In addition to helping seniors with some of their dementia-related symptoms, yoga is a great way for caregivers to spend time relaxing while participating in classes with their loved ones. On a related note, caregivers may find they’re better able to reduce caregiver stress by taking up yoga for their own benefit.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional
dementia care. Winnipeg families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (204) 489-6000.
