Author(s): Varsha SV

Abstract:
Sleep disturbances are increasing with aging and it is estimated that nearly 67% of the elderly people have at least one sleep-related complaint. Sleep disturbances can affect daytime function in elderly and have a significant negative effect on the Quality Of Life. An increasing body of studies have suggested that lifestyle factors have a significant impact on how well people age. Yoga is one such mind body intervention which is increasingly being explored for therapeutic potentials in elderly. Hence current study was undertaken to assess the effect of long term Yoga exercises on sleep quality. Study was done on comparable group of elderly aged more than 60 years. Sleep quality was assessed with Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) among two groups. Comparison of scores was done using paired t test between Yoga group, which had subjects who were practicing yoga regularly since 2years or more and non-Yoga group. Yoga group had significantly better (P<0.05) sleep quality, less sleep latency, less episodes of disturbed sleep, less use of sleep medications and less day time dysfunction. And overall, elderly subjects practicing yoga regularly had better sleep quality with less sleep disturbances.

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