Yoga as a Mindfulness Intervention for the Cognitive, Psychological, and Social Needs of Older Adults
Bring vitality to the aging journey.
As adults age, they face a unique set of health challenges, which can extend beyond physical well-being to deeply impact mental and emotional health. Two critical risk factors for older adults are a sense of thwarted belonging—feeling disconnected, lonely, and unsupported—and perceived burdensomeness, the belief that one is a liability to others, often accompanied by self-criticism and diminished self-worth. These narratives can greatly harm mental health, increasing the likelihood of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Over time, this mindset can lead to further isolation, which not only compounds mood disorders but also accelerates cognitive decline, highlighting the profound link between mental well-being and cognitive health.
Traditional approaches to care often treat symptoms, but addressing the underlying issues—namely, a need for community, purpose, and meaningful engagement—can have a transformative impact. Research shows that a proactive focus on social support and shared purpose can significantly enhance both physical and mental resilience in older adults. Group and activity-based therapies, particularly those that involve creative or non-verbal tasks in social settings, can be especially beneficial. These settings foster a sense of belonging, encourage self-expression, and allow participants to contribute to the well-being of their peers.
By engaging in these activities, older adults can better manage their symptoms, learn coping strategies, and feel valued and connected within a community. This approach not only enhances quality of life but also has lasting benefits for mental health, helping individuals feel supported, purposeful, and engaged as they age.
One such activity-based intervention is group therapeutic yoga for older adults. Woven Wellness recommends this group yoga approach because it brings together people who share common conditions or issues. This gathering reduces potential isolation and feelings of being alone. According to Eaton et al. (2024), “Mind-body therapies are emerging as promising strategies to address the effects of cognitive impairment in older adults, with groups emerging as the ideal format of service delivery.”
Bring Woven Wellness therapeutic yoga to your community of older adults to increase quality of life! We specialize in integrating Acceptance Commitment Therapy into cues and intention setting so participants embody healthy psychological principles. All flows are adaptable to the spectrum of abilities at your facility.
References:
Eaton, A. D., Rourke, S. B., Craig, S. L., Fallon, B. A., Emlet, C. A., Katz, E., & Walmsley, S. L. (2024). Mindfulness and cognitive training interventions that address intersecting cognitive and aging needs of older adults. Journal of Social Work, 24(1), 126-145. https://doi.org/10.1177/14680173231207961
Gager, C.T., Gunn, J.F., Goldstein, S.E., & Martinez, S.M. (2024). Thwarted belonging and perceived burdensomeness during middle and older adulthood: the role of generativity. The International Journal of Aging and Human Development,99(1), 25-46.