Introduction: With age, the incidence of falls increases. After the age of 65, about a third of people fall each year, and after the age of 85, as many as half. When falling, most older adults get injured or develop a fear of doing so. This fear, which can limit activity in older adults, can reduce mobility and increase the risk of falling again. While noting their interconnectedness, yoga is an ancient practice that aims to improve both physical and mental health. The combination of body postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayamas) and meditations can have many positive effects on the body and mind. Purpose: After reviewing the literature, the purpose of the diploma thesis was to determine whether regular yoga practice reduces the fear of falling in older adults. Methods: The review of scientific research in English, accessible in the PubMed electronic database, on the effects of yoga on the risks and fears of falls in older adults. Results: We have reviewed six studies. Two of them were randomized in addition to the intervention group, while the other studies were conducted with intervention groups only. Only two studies did show statistically significant results of fear of falling. Discussion and conclusion: Most studies did not show statistically significant results of risk and fear of falling and re-fall. That’s why, both higher quality primary studies on the impact and long-term effects of yoga on fear of falling in older adults and comparisons of yoga with existing programs that already address the problem are needed for a more thorough investigation.
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