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The Effects of Yoga versus Exercise on Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Older Adults

The Effects of Yoga versus Exercise on Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Older Adults

Kimberlee Bethany Bonura, PhD, RYT1 & David Pargman, PhD2
1. Walden University, Minneapolis, MN 2. Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL


Abstract: The present study investigates the effect of chair Yoga versus walking and chair aerobics on psychological health in older adult men and women. Participants (M age = 83; N = 42) were randomly assigned to one of four activity groups: chair Yoga, chair aerobics, walking, and social games (non-activity control group). Classes met for 30 minutes, 3 days per week, for 6 weeks. ANCOVAs revealed significant time by group interaction for stress frequency; the Yoga group showed the most stress reduction over time. Time by group interactions for the other variables (stress severity, depression, and anxiety) were nonsignificant, although Yoga participants experienced the most benefits over the course of the intervention. Replication with a larger sample size is warranted in order to better understand the impact of Yoga on psychological health in older adults.