Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common forms of dementia and affects millions of older adults worldwide. The condition gradually damages memory, thinking ability, and daily functioning, making it difficult for patients to live independently. It also places a significant emotional and physical burden on family members and caregivers.
A new study conducted by researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, suggests that yoga may offer important benefits for people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
The study found that a structured 12-week yoga programme helped improve memory, cognitive function, mood, and overall quality of life in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers also observed a reduction in caregiver burden.
The study was done by Prof. Rima Dada, Dr. Prabhakar Tiwari and researchers from the Departments of Anatomy, Neurology, and Clinical Research at AIIMS New Delhi.
What Did the Study Involve?
The research included 30 participants aged 60 years and above who had been diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. The participants took part in a yoga programme that lasted for 12 weeks.
The sessions were conducted for one hour a day, six days a week, and included yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), relaxation techniques, and meditation.
Before and after the programme, researchers assessed participants using standard tools that measured depression, memory, cognitive performance, and overall mental functioning.
Improvements in Memory and Cognitive Function
After completing the yoga programme, participants showed significant improvements in cognitive performance. Researchers found better scores in memory, language skills, attention, concentration, and delayed recall. Overall cognitive assessment scores improved substantially after the intervention.
The study also reported a reduction in depressive symptoms. Participants appeared to feel more positive and emotionally stable after practicing yoga regularly.
Reduced Stress for Caregivers
One of the most important findings was the reduction in caregiver burden. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be physically exhausting and emotionally challenging. Researchers found that as patients experienced improvements in mood and cognitive function, caregivers also reported lower levels of stress and burden.
Yoga and Gut Health Connection
The study also highlighted an interesting connection between yoga and gut health. Researchers observed positive changes in the gut microbiome—the community of bacteria that lives in the digestive system. Following the yoga intervention, participants showed higher levels of beneficial bacteria such as Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, and Bifidobacterium, which are known to support gut and brain health.
At the same time, several potentially harmful and inflammation-related bacteria declined. Scientists believe these changes may influence the “gut-brain axis,” the two-way communication system between the digestive system and the brain. A healthier gut environment may help support better brain function and reduce inflammation.
Why These Findings Matter
Although larger studies are needed to confirm the results, the findings suggest that yoga may be a safe, affordable, and non-drug approach that can complement conventional Alzheimer’s care.
Researchers believe yoga may help by reducing stress, improving nervous system regulation, lowering inflammation, and promoting emotional wellbeing.
For families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, regular yoga practice may offer benefits not only for patients but also for those caring for them.
