Yoga to Prevent Mobility Limitations in Older Adults

Yoga to Prevent Mobility Limitations in Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

The loss of mobility during aging impacts independence and leads to further disability, morbidity, and reduced life expectancy. The study objective was to examine the feasibility and safety of conducting a randomized controlled trial of yoga for older adults at risk for mobility limitations. The investigators hypothesized that sedentary older adults could be recruited for the study, would attend either yoga or a health education control, would complete assessments, and that the interventions could be safely delivered.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 60-89 years
• self-reported sedentary lifestyle (not exercising in the past 3 months; included walking at a brisk pace or regular walking for exercise purposes)
• SPPB summary score > 3 and ≤ 8
• willingness attend either yoga or health education for 10 weeks
• willing to complete two assessments
• residence in San Diego metropolitan area
• provided a physician-signed health clearance form.

Exclusion Criteria:

• practiced yoga > 2x in the last year
• life expectancy < 12 months.