Healthy Ageing Through Yoga: Bridging Prevention, Function, and Rehabilitation

Population ageing is a growing global challenge that requires strategies aimed not only at increasing lifespan but also at preserving health, independence, and quality of life. Healthy ageing emphasizes the maintenance of physical, mental, and social well-being, with particular focus on sustaining functional ability throughout later life. Yoga, an ancient mind-body practice integrating physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, has gained increasing recognition as a potential contributor to these goals. This editorial explores the role of yoga in promoting healthy ageing through its contributions to prevention, functional maintenance, and rehabilitation. Yoga may encourage physical activity, improve mobility and balance, support psychological well-being, and facilitate participation in daily life. In addition, it may help preserve functional independence and complement rehabilitation efforts in individuals with age-related health conditions and disabilities. Its adaptability allows practices to be modified according to individual needs and functional abilities, making it applicable across diverse ageing populations. By spanning the continuum from health promotion to rehabilitation, yoga offers a practical approach that aligns with contemporary function-centered and person-centered models of care. While evidence supporting yoga for healthy ageing continues to grow, findings remain heterogeneous, and implementation requires appropriate adaptation, safety screening, and guidance from trained instructors, particularly for older adults with functional limitations or multiple comorbidities. Recognizing yoga as more than a wellness practice may contribute to a more comprehensive approach to ageing well and support broader healthy ageing goals.