The effect of mindfulness-based intervention on depression in family caregivers of dementia patients: a meta-analysis and GRADE evaluation
Frontiers in Psychology May 12, 2026 Xi Zhang, Hongyan Wang, Xiaohui Wang et al.
A meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials involving 563 participants found that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) improved depressive symptoms in family caregivers of dementia patients, with a moderate effect size. The benefit persisted at 3 months post-intervention but was not significant at 6 months. Subgroup analyses showed that 8-week MBSR, mindfulness meditation, and acceptance and commitment therapy were effective, while 10-week MBCT was not. The authors conclude that the format, duration, and follow-up timing of MBIs influence their effectiveness, and they recommend that clinicians select appropriate protocols and ensure continuity of care. The certainty of evidence was rated as moderate.