Effect of integrated approach of yoga therapyonloneliness in elderly: An interventional study

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: A person must be adaptable and learn new coping mechanisms to deal with the changes that are common to these stages of life to cope with the changes that come with getting older. But various research also give evidence that loneliness, depressions are very much common during old age which is a significant contributor to suicide and suicide attempts. Incorporating Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy, one can able to reestablish the link betweenhis mind, body with the present moment, alleviates loneliness, and boosts self-esteem. The objective of the study to know the effect of integrated approach of yoga therapy on loneliness of elderly people.
 
 Materials and Methods: The study was carried out by the researcher taking 50 older people between the age group of 60 to 80 following the inclusion and exclusion criteria and through purposive sampling method. The study was done by using one sample group for pre and post-test assessment. All the participants had undergone a practice session of 12weeks in the nearby Temple premises. They were instructed to lead regular lives while taking their medications as prescribed and to maintain a healthy eating pattern. The UCLA questionnaire was used to evaluate loneliness before and after practice.
 
 Results: After regular three months practice, the UCLA scale showed significantly decreasing trend. The sample average of the pre- and post-test data showed significant differences enough to be statistically relevant.
 
 Conclusion: Adopting IAYT into their regular lifestyle, seniors can reduce their loneliness and enhance self- esteem.