A Multidimensional Health Perspective: Analysis of the Effects of Yoga Intervention on Sleep Disorders in Older Adults

A Multidimensional Health Perspective: Analysis of the Effects of Yoga Intervention on Sleep Disorders in Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the impact of a structured yoga intervention on multidimensional health outcomes in older adults with sleep disturbances. A total of 62 participants aged 60 years and older with varying degrees of sleep disorders were recruited and randomly assigned to either a yoga intervention group or a control group. The intervention group received a standardized yoga program for 4 months, conducted twice weekly (60 minutes per session), and guided by certified instructors. The yoga intervention included physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation/relaxation techniques. Health outcomes were assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (8 weeks), and post-intervention (16 weeks), across five domains: sleep quality, daytime functioning, cognitive performance, physical fitness, and emotional well-being. This study aims to explore the feasibility, safety, and integrative effects of yoga as a non-pharmacological intervention for promoting health in the aging population.

Inclusion Criteria :

1. ≥ 60 years, conforming to the World Health Organization's definition of the elderly population.
2. Presence of varying degrees of sleep disorder symptoms (e.g., difficulty falling asleep, sleep maintenance difficulties, early morning awakening), but without severe mental illness or other significant underlying diseases affecting sleep (e.g., dementia, severe depression).
3. Possessing basic comprehension abilities, voluntarily participating in the study, and signing informed consent.
4. Capable of cooperating with follow-up and intervention.
5. No severe physical dysfunction, cardiopulmonary disease, or other conditions limiting participation in light physical activities (such as yoga practice).

Exclusion Criteria :

1. Severe mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression.
2. Severe cognitive impairment, making it impossible to cooperate with the intervention and subjective questionnaire assessments.
3. Unstable cardiovascular diseases or other major organic diseases (e.g., recent myocardial infarction, end-stage renal failure).
4. Severe visual or auditory impairments that affect the safety and adherence to practice.