EFFECTIVENESS OF YOGA AS AN ADJUVANT THERAPY ON GLYCEMIC CONTROL AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS-A PILOT RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

The geriatric population is defined as population aged 60 years and above. This ageing, at biological level results from the impact of accumulation of a wide variety of molecular and cellular damage over time which leads to gradual decrease in physical and mental capacity and deterioration of organ systems in the body leading to increase in risk of ailments. Diabetes mellitus (DM), particularly Type 2 Diabetes, has become a major global health challenge, with older adults being especially vulnerable to its complications. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global prevalence of diabetes among adults aged 60 years and above is rising steadily, making it one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in this population. Older adults with diabetes are at increased risk of both acute and chronic complications, such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, kidney failure, and poor quality of life (QoL). Most patients with T2DM display dyslipidemia, hypertension and hyperinsulinemia, which are associated with metabolic syndrome and will lead to an increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease. Managing glycemic control effectively is crucial to preventing these complications and improving the overall health and well-being of older individuals living with diabetes. Conventional management of diabetes primarily focuses on pharmacological treatments, such as insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents, alongside lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise. However, despite these efforts, many older adults struggle with optimal glycemic control, often due to challenges such as polypharmacy, physical limitations, and reduced ability to exercise. India there is a rich history of using yoga to manage T2DM. Yoga is a mind/body practice based on traditional Indian philosophy, often incorporating three major components: held or sequences of physical postures, breathing exercises and meditation. Previous studies have shown that yoga can have beneficial effects on blood glucose levels, reduce stress, improve physical fitness, and enhance psychological well-being. However, while yoga has been widely explored as a complementary treatment for diabetes, few studies have specifically focused on older adults, a population with unique health challenges and considerations. Given the potential benefits of yoga and the increasing burden of diabetes in older adults, it is essential to investigate whether yoga can be an effective intervention for improving glycemic control and quality of life in this demographic. The results of such studies could not only expand our understanding of yoga as an adjuvant therapy but also contribute to developing holistic, person-centered care strategies for managing diabetes in older adults.