The Therapeutic Potential of Yoga for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Critical Review

Pathophysiological mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease involves the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles in the brain, which are critical pathological hallmarks that play a crucial role in the progression of AD [3]. Together, these structural abnormalities lead to synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and widespread neuronal loss [3]. This neurodegenerative progression disrupts neural communication, which significantly contributes to the progressive cognitive decline and memory impairment observed in AD patients [3]. The resultant brain atrophy, particularly in the hippocampus and cortex, further exacerbates the symptoms of the disease, ultimately leading to severe cognitive deficits and loss of functional independence [3].

Alzheimer’s disease treatment and management

Pharmacological treatments for AD include medications such as donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine, which aim to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain, thus temporarily improving cognitive function [4]. Additionally, memantine regulates glutamate activity to help alleviate symptoms in moderate to severe AD [5]. While these drugs are approved for AD treatment, they do not halt or reverse disease progression. Thus, these medications can improve cognitive function and temporarily manage symptoms but they do not reduce the accumulation of Aβ plaques and tau tangles, which are central to AD pathology [4, 5]. Moreover, medications for AD management can cause unwanted side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, increased frequency of bowel movements, headache, constipation, confusion, and dizziness [1].

Emerging research evidence increasingly supports the efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions, such as cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, and dietary modifications, in enhancing quality of life and potentially slowing cognitive decline in patients with AD [6]. Such interventions can slow cognitive decline and improve quality of life in individuals with AD [7]. Research also suggests that regular physical activity and a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats may reduce the risk of AD [8]. Indeed, physical exercise has been shown to have fewer side effects and better adherence compared to medications [9].

Mind-body interventions for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease

Mind-body practices integrate both physical and mental activities and can vary in emphasis. Some, like yoga, tai chi, and qigong, are more exercise-focused, while others, such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques, concentrate on breathing and stress reduction [6]. Yoga, in particular, is a comprehensive mind-body practice offering well-documented physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Research has demonstrated that yoga has multiple benefits relevant to AD treatment: it can enhance flexibility and muscle strength [10], improve cardiovascular health [11], reduce pain [12], alleviate stress and anxiety [13], enhance cognitive function [14], and promote anti-inflammatory effects [15].

A systematic review by Karamacoska et al. [16] assessed the health effects of yoga on individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; which is a precursor to AD) and dementia. The authors concluded that most studies reported improved cognition, mood, and balance. However, the authors also noted a high risk of bias in these studies, and only a few studies thoroughly assessed safety, with minimal adverse effects such as dizziness reported. Karamacoska et al. concluded that while yoga shows promise for improving the well-being of individuals with MCI or dementia, more high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to strengthen the evidence base and address the limitations of existing studies. Their comprehensive analysis highlights both the potential benefits of yoga and the pressing need for rigorous future research to confirm these findings.

Similar to Karamacoska et al.’s [16] review of clinical trials in yoga practice as an intervention for individuals with MCI, this review aims to provide an overview of clinical trials that evaluate the efficacy of yoga practice, both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other interventions, for individuals with AD. Additionally, this review critically examines the research methodologies employed by these clinical trials to assess their effectiveness and identify limitations.

Effects of yoga on Alzheimer’s disease: Insights from in vitro models

Yoga and meditation practices have been shown to slow cognitive decline in AD patients [32]; however, the precise biological mechanisms underlying these effects still need to be fully understood. Using an in vitro model of AD [33], Hassan et al. [30] hypothesized that the neurotransmitters stimulated by yoga practice could reverse the effects of AD.

Hassan et al. [30] employed a model of AD involving basal forebrain cholinergic neurons derived from neural progenitors [34]. The authors treated these basal cholinergic neurons with varying oligomer Aβ_1–42 concentrations for 48 hours to replicate the conditions present in the AD-affected brain. The in vitro model replicated two critical biological effects observed in AD: the loss of choline acetyltransferase expression and a significant reduction in receptor p75 expression that binds neurotrophins [29]. Hassan et al. determined the effects of several neurotransmitters and neurotrophins secreted during yoga on the cellular model of AD [30]. These factors included brain-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor, histamine, dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. Furthermore, they found that two combinations of factors (serotonin and dopamine, serotonin and histamine) were sufficient to rescue cholinergic function, as indicated by increased levels of choline acetyltransferase expression. These findings suggest a potential mechanism for these observed neuroprotective effects of yoga on AD by inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis or activating serotonin receptors to inhibit the production of Aβ oligomers.

Effects of yoga on chronic inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease

Chronic inflammation is thought to be a significant contributor to the progression of AD. Neuroinflammation is driven by activated microglia and astrocytes, which release pro-inflammatory cytokines and other mediators that exacerbate neuronal damage [2]. Microglial activation results in the release of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which contribute to neuronal dysfunction and death. Research indicates that yoga may reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha while increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-10 (IL-10) [51]. This shift towards an anti-inflammatory profile creates a more favorable environment for neuronal health and can slow the progression of AD [35].

Effects of yoga on oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s disease

Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to detoxify these harmful byproducts. In AD, increased oxidative stress leads to neuronal damage and death. ROS, including free radicals such as superoxide anions and hydrogen peroxide, damage cellular components such as lipids, proteins, and DNA. Some studies have demonstrated that yoga enhances the body’s antioxidant defenses [29, 36]. For example, yoga practices can boost levels of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, which help neutralize ROS [36]. By inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis, neurotransmitters released during yoga have been proposed to reduce oxidative and nitrosative stress, protecting neurons from further oxidative damage [29]. Nitric oxide, when produced in excess, reacts with superoxide to form peroxynitrite, a potent oxidant that further damages neurons.

Yoga supports neuroplasticity and helps maintain cognitive function

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, and is essential for learning, memory, and cognitive function. In AD, enhancing neuroplasticity can help maintain cognitive functions despite ongoing neurodegeneration. The mechanistic actions of yoga has been shown to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in AD in vitro models [30]. BDNF is an essential protein involved in neuroplasticity that supports neuron survival, growth, and differentiation, all of which are crucial for maintaining cognitive function in AD patients [30]. In non-AD patient populations, yoga has been shown to increase other growth factors that promote neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) [37]. These growth factors help form and strengthen synapses, which are essential for effective neural communication and cognitive resilience.

In conclusion, biochemical evidence suggests that yoga may provide a multifaceted approach to mitigating AD symptoms through neuroprotective mechanisms, including neurotransmitter regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, oxidative stress reduction, and enhanced neuroplasticity. These findings highlight the potential of integrating yoga into comprehensive treatment regimens for AD, potentially improving patients’ quality of life and slowing disease progression [30, 32]. Furthermore, researchers have conducted clinical trials examining the effects of various forms of yoga practices as a treatment intervention for individuals diagnosed with AD and related dementias.

Quantitative studies on yoga practice as a treatment intervention for Alzheimer’s disease

Table 1 summarizes quantitative studies that assess the effects of yoga interventions on individuals diagnosed with AD and related dementias. The studies range from one-group pretest/posttest designs to cluster randomized controlled trials. Participants in these studies were mostly older adults, aged 65 to 98 years, and predominantly female. The yoga interventions varied, with most studies focusing on Hatha or chair yoga, typically administered twice weekly over 4 to 16 weeks.

The quantitative studies summarized in Table 1 highlight the varied impacts of yoga interventions on individuals with AD and related dementias. These studies demonstrate that yoga can lead to significant improvements in physical functions such as balance [38, 40], flexibility [38], and mobility [41, 44], as well as enhancements in quality of life [41, 45]. Some interventions, such as chair yoga, showed promising results in reducing pain [44, 45] and improving cognitive function [44]. However, one study did not show any statistically significant outcomes [39], while two studies showed adverse psychological outcomes [42, 43], suggesting that further research with more rigorous designs (e.g., larger sample sizes [42], and longer study durations [43]) is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of yoga for AD populations.

Qualitative studies on yoga practice as a treatment intervention for Alzheimer’s disease

Table 2 highlights qualitative studies of yoga interventions for caregivers of patients with AD and individuals diagnosed with AD or related dementias. The studies predominantly utilized chair yoga, with intervention frequencies ranging from once to twice weekly sessions over 8 to 12 weeks. Participants varied, and included caregivers and older adults with AD, with a mean age ranging from 69 to 98 years.

Table 2 presents qualitative research findings that emphasize the subjective improvements reported by participants and caregivers in yoga intervention studies. The reported benefits, including enhanced mobility [46–48], balance [46, 47], memory [46], and mood [46], and reductions in anxiety and stress [47], suggest that yoga contributes to physical and psychological well-being. Caregivers, in particular, noted improved emotional regulation and engagement [47, 48], which can profoundly impact the caregiving experience. These results underscore yoga’s holistic value for individuals with AD and their caregivers, highlighting its potential to improve emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of life.

Yoga practice for older adult women at risk for Alzheimer’s disease

Age is the most significant risk factor for AD, with the prevalence of the disease doubling approximately every five years beyond the age of 65 [49]. This increased risk is partly due to the cumulative effects of age-related changes in the brain, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and decreased neuroplasticity [50]. Women are at a higher risk for developing AD than men, which is believed to be related to several factors, including longer life expectancy and hormonal changes post-menopause. Estrogen is thought to have neuroprotective effects, and its decline during menopause may contribute to the increased incidence of AD in older women [49].

Researchers have investigated the effects of yoga on older women at risk for AD through a series of studies [51–55]. In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), Lavretsky [54] compared Kundalini yoga and Kirtan Kriya yogic meditation to memory enhancement training (MET) to determine their effectiveness in improving cognitive functioning, health (including cardiovascular factors), and mood in women with a high risk of AD.

Building on Lavretsky’s [54] initial RCT, subsequent studies by Krause-Sorio et al. [53], Kilpatrick et al. [52], Reddy et al. [55], and Grzenda et al. [51] further explored the effects of Kundalini yoga combined with Kirtan Kriya on the neurocognitive functions and psychological health in this demographic. Data from these studies collectively provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of yoga and meditation practices for women at risk of developing AD and are summarized in Table 3. Interventions were typically given once weekly over 12 weeks, with some studies extending follow-up to 24 months [51, 55]. Participants were generally middle-aged to older women, with ages ranging from approximately 61 to 67.

The studies presented in Table 3, which focus on women at risk for AD, reveal significant positive outcomes associated with yoga interventions. Findings such as increased gray matter volume [53], enhanced hippocampal connectivity [52], and reductions in inflammation and stress [51, 55] demonstrate the potential of yoga to preserve cognitive function and mitigate risk factors associated with AD. The consistent cognitive and physiological improvements across studies reinforce yoga’s role as a promising intervention for women at risk of AD, particularly when it comes to long-term brain health and the prevention of cognitive decline.

Feasibility and adherence

Feasibility and adherence to yoga interventions are crucial indicators of their practicality, particularly for populations with AD, who often experience cognitive and physical impairments that can hinder participation in structured activities. Across the reviewed studies, adherence rates were consistently high, underscoring the acceptability and adaptability of yoga for individuals with varying degrees of cognitive decline.

McCaffrey et al. [40] found that all nine older adults with moderate to severe AD completed an 8-week Sit ‘N’ Fit Chair Yoga Program, demonstrating the intervention’s feasibility even for those with advanced dementia. Notably, participants maintained engagement throughout the program, suggesting that the structure of the chair yoga sessions was appropriately aligned with their cognitive and physical capabilities. Similarly, Litchke et al. [42] reported strong adherence in a 10-week chair yoga intervention, with minimal attrition. This study highlighted the importance of creating a supportive environment, where the social and interactive nature of the sessions may have contributed to sustained participation.

Park et al. [46] explored the feasibility of yoga in long-term care settings, emphasizing the importance of staff training and environmental adaptations to ensure successful implementation. The study found that, despite the challenges posed by the setting, yoga could be effectively integrated into the daily routines of residents with moderate to severe cognitive impairments, further supporting its feasibility. In addition, Park et al. [43] and Park et al. [48] extended this research into remote settings, examining the feasibility of home-based online chair yoga. These studies found that remote delivery of yoga maintained high adherence rates, even in rural older adults with AD, suggesting that the accessibility of yoga interventions can be greatly enhanced through digital platforms.

Allende et al. [45] demonstrated the feasibility of teleyoga for patients with AD. The study found that participants not only adhered to the program but also showed a high level of engagement, with positive feedback regarding the convenience and accessibility of online sessions.

The high levels of adherence observed across these studies suggest that yoga is both feasible and appealing to individuals with AD, even in more advanced stages. The adaptability of yoga, particularly chair yoga, to accommodate this population’s physical and cognitive needs likely contributes to its widespread acceptance. Moreover, the successful delivery of yoga through remote and online platforms, as demonstrated in studies by Park et al. [43], Park et al. [48], and Allende et al. [45], underscores the intervention’s flexibility and its potential to reach a broader audience, including those in underserved or geographically isolated areas.

These findings suggest that yoga could be widely adopted as a complementary therapy in various care settings, offering a non-pharmacological option that is accessible, affordable, and well-tolerated by individuals with AD. Additionally, the success of remote yoga interventions points to the critical role telehealth initiatives could play in expanding access to therapeutic activities, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The broader adoption of online and teleyoga could lead to significant public health benefits by enabling more individuals with AD to participate in interventions promoting physical and cognitive health.

Physical function

Physical function is a critical determinant of independence and quality of life in individuals with AD, and the reviewed studies provide robust evidence that yoga can significantly enhance physical abilities in this population. McCaffrey et al. [40] observed substantial improvements in balance, gait speed, and endurance among participants in the Sit’ N’ Fit Chair Yoga Program. In McCaffrey et al.’s [40] study, The Six-Minute Walk Test and the Berg Balance Scale revealed that participants’ physical function improved significantly over the eight weeks, indicating that even gentle, seated yoga exercises can positively impact key physical metrics.

Litchke et al. [42] also reported marked improvements in physical function, particularly in balance and posture. Participants in their 10-week chair yoga program demonstrated increased stability and mobility, which are crucial for fall prevention—an important consideration for individuals with AD who are at higher risk of falls due to cognitive and physical decline. The study highlighted the role of yoga in enhancing proprioception (the sense of body position), which may explain the observed improvements in balance.

Gallego et al. [38] provided further evidence of yoga’s benefits for physical function, showing that a Hatha yoga program led to significant gains in equilibrium and flexibility. These findings are particularly noteworthy as they suggest that traditional yoga practices when adapted to the abilities of individuals with AD, can effectively enhance physical health and reduce the risk of injury. Similarly, Salazar et al. [39] demonstrated that Hatha yoga improved balance, strength, and overall physical function in AD patients, reinforcing the notion that yoga can be a valuable tool for maintaining physical health in this population.

Park et al. [44] expanded the scope of these findings by exploring the effects of an online chair yoga program on rural older adults with AD. The study reported significant enhancements in mobility and physical function, contributing to a better overall quality of life. Achieving these benefits through a remote intervention highlights the potential for yoga to be delivered flexibly without sacrificing effectiveness.

The improvements in physical function observed across these studies suggest that yoga can be crucial in maintaining and enhancing physical abilities in individuals with AD. The controlled, deliberate movements typical of yoga, combined with breath control and mindfulness, likely contribute to better motor coordination, stability, and flexibility. These enhancements are significant for individuals with AD, as they help prevent falls and other injuries that are common due to both physical and cognitive impairments.

The potential of yoga to serve as both a preventive and rehabilitative measure against the physical decline often seen in individuals with AD is significant. By improving balance, mobility, and strength, yoga can help delay the progression of physical impairments that lead to increased dependency, reduced quality of life, and a higher risk of falls and hospitalization. Furthermore, as demonstrated by Park et al. [44], the ability to deliver yoga remotely extends these physical benefits to individuals who may not have access to in-person interventions, enhancing the accessibility and scalability of yoga as a therapeutic option.

These findings have significant implications for the development of care strategies for individuals with AD. The demonstrated improvements in physical function highlight the importance of incorporating yoga into therapeutic programs to maintain independence and enhance quality of life. The success of online yoga interventions suggests that yoga could be effectively integrated into telehealth initiatives, providing a scalable and accessible option for promoting physical health across diverse populations. Additionally, these findings support the creation of standardized yoga protocols tailored to the specific needs of individuals with AD, which could be implemented across various care settings, from residential facilities to home care, to maximize the physical benefits of yoga.

Cognitive improvements

Cognitive decline is one of the most challenging aspects of AD, and interventions that can slow or mitigate this decline are of great interest. Reddy et al. [55] found that participants who engaged in Kundalini yoga and Kirtan Kriya meditation showed significant improvements in cognitive domains, including memory, executive function, and processing speed. These cognitive gains were more pronounced than those observed in a MET group, suggesting that yoga may offer unique cognitive benefits beyond conventional cognitive training.

Kilpatrick et al. [52] supported these findings, reporting that yoga participants exhibited enhanced hippocampal connectivity and improved memory function. Using advanced neuroimaging techniques, the authors showed that yoga can positively influence brain structure and function, particularly in regions associated with memory and cognitive processing. Similar findings were reported by Krause-Sorio et al. [53], who observed that participants in a Kundalini yoga program showed preserved gray matter volume and enhanced cognitive function over time. The preservation of gray matter is particularly significant, as it suggests that yoga may help protect against the neurodegeneration typically seen in AD.

Grzenda et al. [51] provided additional evidence by showing that women at high risk for AD who participated in a yoga intervention exhibited cognitive and immunological benefits. The study reported improvements in memory, attention, and executive function, alongside reductions in inflammatory markers, suggesting a dual benefit of yoga in enhancing cognitive function while reducing factors contributing to cognitive decline.

Litchke and Hodges [47] found that participants in a chair yoga program demonstrated significant improvements in attention and mental engagement. These cognitive gains were observed even in individuals with more advanced AD, highlighting the potential of yoga to support cognitive function across different stages of the disease.

Allende et al. [45] demonstrated the effectiveness of teleyoga (remote yoga sessions) in improving cognitive function in patients with mild AD. This study found that teleyoga participants not only adhered to the program but also showed significant cognitive improvements, further underscoring the potential of yoga to be delivered effectively in virtual formats.

The cognitive improvements observed across these studies suggest that yoga can positively influence brain function in individuals with AD. The repetitive and focused nature of yoga and the mental discipline involved likely enhance cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and executive function. The preservation of gray matter and enhanced hippocampal connectivity observed in Gothe et al.’s study [14] further support the potential of yoga to contribute to neuroplasticity and cognitive resilience.

The significance of these findings lies in the potential of yoga as a neuroprotective intervention that can contribute to maintaining cognitive function in the face of neurodegeneration. The preservation of cognitive abilities and support for brain health offered by yoga could play a critical role in slowing the progression of cognitive decline in individuals with AD or those at high risk for the disease. Furthermore, the success of teleyoga in enhancing cognitive function suggests that yoga can be effectively delivered in various formats, making it accessible to a broader population.

Inflammatory markers and neuroprotection

Several researchers have explored yoga’s impact on inflammatory markers and neuroprotection, revealing its potential as a neuroprotective intervention [29, 55]. Reddy et al. [55] reported significant changes in cytokine levels among yoga participants, including increases in anti-inflammatory markers such as IL-10 and reductions in pro-inflammatory markers like TNF-α. These changes suggest that yoga may exert a protective effect on the brain by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation, which is a key contributor to the pathogenesis of AD.

Krause-Sorio et al. [53] found that participants in a Kundalini yoga program exhibited preserved gray matter volume and enhanced hippocampal connectivity. The preservation of gray matter and improved brain connectivity are significant findings, as they indicate that yoga may help protect against the neurodegenerative processes associated with AD. The study’s use of neuroimaging techniques provided robust evidence that yoga can positively impact brain structure, further supporting its role in neuroprotection.

Hassan et al. [29] investigated the mechanisms behind yoga’s neuroprotective effects, finding that yoga reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key contributors to AD pathology. The study demonstrated that yoga led to a decrease in markers of oxidative stress, such as malondialdehyde, and an increase in antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, suggesting that yoga may help counteract the oxidative damage that contributes to neuronal degeneration in AD [29]. These findings align with those of Balaji et al. [32], who reported that yoga significantly reduced stress-related biomarkers, thereby potentially mitigating neurodegenerative processes and promoting overall brain health.

Grzenda et al. [51] also observed reductions in inflammatory markers and improvements in cognitive and immunological function in women at high risk for AD following a yoga intervention. The study found that participants experienced decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and increased anti-inflammatory markers, accompanied by cognitive improvements. This suggests that yoga’s neuroprotective effects may be mediated through its impact on inflammation and immune function.

The observed changes in inflammatory markers and the preservation of brain structure across these studies suggest that yoga may exert its neuroprotective effects through multiple pathways, including immune response modulation, oxidative stress reduction, and neuroplasticity enhancement. The reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, along with the preservation of gray matter and hippocampal connectivity, indicates that yoga may help mitigate the neuroinflammatory processes that contribute to the progression of AD. The dual benefits observed in some studies, such as cognitive improvements alongside inflammation reduction [51, 55], highlight yoga’s integrative role as a therapeutic intervention, addressing AD’s cognitive and physiological aspects.

The significance of these findings is that they reveal yoga’s potential to target the underlying pathophysiology of AD, offering a holistic approach to disease prevention and management. The preservation of brain structure and function observed in these studies emphasizes the potential value of incorporating yoga into preventive health strategies, particularly for individuals at high risk for AD or those in the early stages of the disease. Furthermore, yoga’s ability to modulate inflammation and reduce oxidative stress suggests that it could complement existing pharmacological treatments, potentially enhancing their efficacy or reducing the need for higher doses of medication.

Mood and behavioral changes

Mood and behavioral symptoms are common in individuals with AD, significantly affecting their quality of life and that of their caregivers. The studies reviewed here provide evidence that yoga can have a positive impact on these symptoms, offering a nonpharmacological option for managing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Litchke et al. [42] found that participants in a chair yoga program experienced significant improvements in mood, with reductions in anxiety and depression. The study also noted that participants became more socially engaged and exhibited improved emotional regulation, suggesting that yoga may enhance individual well-being and social interaction.

Park et al. [44] reported similar findings in their study of online chair yoga for rural older adults with AD. Participants showed decreased stress levels and enhanced emotional regulation, indicating that even remote yoga delivery can effectively address mood and behavioral symptoms in this population. The study highlighted the accessibility of yoga as a therapeutic intervention that can be delivered flexibly without compromising its effectiveness.

Litchke and Hodges [47] found that yoga participants displayed increased mental alertness and emotional engagement, which are crucial for improving mood and reducing BPSD. The study observed that participants were more focused and exhibited fewer behavioral disturbances, highlighting the potential of yoga to improve overall emotional and psychological well-being.

The improvements in mood and behavioral symptoms observed across these studies suggest that yoga can significantly enhance the emotional well-being of individuals with AD. The combination of physical movement, breath control, and mindfulness inherent to yoga likely plays a crucial role in regulating the autonomic nervous system, thereby reducing stress and anxiety. The observed decreases in cortisol levels and other stress biomarkers further support the idea that yoga effectively modulates the body’s response to stress, leading to better mood and behavioral outcomes.

Moreover, some studies indicate that the social and interactive aspects of yoga may also contribute to improved mood and a reduction in BPSD [42, 47]. By fostering social connections and creating a structured, calming environment, yoga may help alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety, which are prevalent in individuals with AD.

These findings are particularly significant as they demonstrate yoga’s potential to address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with AD. Reducing mood disturbances and BPSD can improve patients’ and their caregivers’ quality of life, potentially easing caregiver burden and delaying the need for more intensive care interventions. The effectiveness of yoga in reducing stress and anxiety further underscores its value as an integral component of comprehensive care strategies aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of individuals with AD.

In summary, these studies provide evidence for the potential benefits of yoga across five key categories—feasibility and adherence, physical function, cognitive improvements, inflammatory markers and neuroprotection, and mood and behavioral changes.