Introduction/Rationale: Acquired brain injury (ABI) may result in cognitive impairments, particularly deficits in executive function (EF), which may impact engagement in various activities. Yoga has been shown to improve various health outcomes and occupational performance for persons with ABI, however few studies have investigated the impact of yoga on EF for the ABI population.
Objectives: Explore the impact of group yoga on EF in individuals with ABI.
Methods/Approach: This was a single-arm pilot study with pre-and post-yoga assessments. An eight-week adaptive group yoga intervention, developed for individuals with ABI, was provided by an adaptive yoga specialist. Twelve participants with chronic ABI (>6 months post ABI) enrolled in the study and were invited to attend 60 minute in-person yoga classes once per week. EF was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function for Adults (BRIEF-A) self-report form. Normative data were analyzed with paired sample t-tests.
Results/Practice Implications: Nine participants completed all study procedures. No significant improvements were found on individual EF Scales, the Metacognition Index, or the Global Executive Composite (p values > 05). Results from paired sample t-tests showed significant improvements on the Behavioral Regulation Index of the BRIEF-A, (p = .046).
Conclusion/Contributions: Group-based yoga may improve some aspects of EF for adults with chronic ABI, however further research with larger sample sizes is needed. Yoga, an intervention increasingly utilized in occupational therapy practice, may be beneficial in improving behavioral regulation (an aspect of EF) for adults with ABI.