The Effect of Āyurvedic Program on the Beneficiaries of Leisure Facilities for the Elderly

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the Ayurvedic program on the autonomic nervous system changes in 12 subjects old people using the Hall for the Elderly. The heart rate variability (HRV) was measured to measure the autonomic nervous system. This study shows significant results in sympathetic nerve (LF), parasympathetic nerve (HF), autonomic nerve (LF / HF) and physical Resistances (SDNN).The questionnaires for measuring subjective feeling also showed the following results: the body symptoms of stress were particularly noticeable in the Vāta-type constitution, the body reaction of stress was remarkable in the Kapha-type constitution, sleeping/sleepiness was high in the Pitta-type constitution, and depression stood out in Kapha-type constitution. Therefore, we confirmed that in both physical and emotional sides the Ayurveda program had a positive effect on reducing stress and depression and improving sleep quality of the old people using the center for senior citizens.