Empowering older adults through yoga: Strategies for effective instruction^☆

This study examines the unique considerations and strategies that yoga instructors can adopt when teaching older adults, a demographic that faces specific physical and psychological changes, necessitating a tailored approach to yoga practice. It presents an ethnographic study conducted over nearly nine months, examining the relationship between physical exercise and health among older adults in the post-COVID-19 context (Sossa, 2024a). A significant finding from this broader study was the participants' positive evaluation of yoga. Building on this initial data, the researcher focused explicitly on yoga practice for an additional four months. The paper considers the qualitative perspectives of class attendees and instructors to discuss the perceived benefits, risks, difficulties, and barriers associated with yoga practice. By comparing and contrasting viewpoints, it provides important insights for those interested in practicing yoga, as well as for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community organizations that promote active aging and enhance the well-being of older populations. Key focus areas include the adaptation of poses, the incorporation of supportive props, and fostering a welcoming environment that encourages participation. Ultimately, this study aims to equip instructors with effective teaching methods to enhance the yoga experience for older adults, contributing to their physical fitness and mental health.