The impact of yoga on quality of life and psychological distress in caregivers for patients with cancer.
Author: Martin AC1, Keats MR2.
Affiliation:
1Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. 2School of Health and Human Performance and the School of Physiotherapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Conference/Journal: Oncol Nurs Forum.
Date published: 2014 May 1
Other:
Volume ID: 41 , Issue ID: 3 , Pages: 257-64 , Special Notes: doi: 10.1188/14.ONF.257-264 , Word Count: 178
Abstract
Purpose/Objectives: To assess the effects of a six-week Vinyasa yoga (VY) intervention on caregivers' overall quality of life (QOL) and psychological distress.Design: A single-group, pre- and post-test pilot study.Setting: University public recreational facility.Sample: 12 informal caregivers for patients with cancer.Methods: Caregivers participated in a six-week VY intervention and completed measures of QOL and psychological distress pre- and postintervention. Program satisfaction was measured with open-ended survey questions.Main Research Variables: QOL, psychological distress, and program satisfaction.Findings: Significant improvements were found in the mental component score of overall QOL and in overall psychological distress. Several subdomains of QOL and psychological distress were also improved significantly. Open-ended survey question responses revealed participants perceived physical and mental benefit from the intervention, highlighting improvements in flexibility, core and upper-body strength, balance, breathing, and energy.Conclusions: Informal caregivers may benefit mentally and physically from participating in VY.Implications for Nursing: Caregivers of patients with cancer characterize a group worthy of attention, research, and interventions focusing on their healthcare needs.
KEYWORDS:
cancer, caregiver, distress, quality of life, yoga
PMID: 24769590
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