A randomized controlled trial tested whether video-delivered Emotion Focused Mindfulness Therapy (EFMT) could reduce anxiety in adults aged 55 and older. Forty-eight participants were assigned to group EFMT via Zoom or a wait-list control. Recruitment took 32 weeks, with 62.3% of screened individuals enrolling; retention was 80.0% and adherence among the intervention group was 100.0%. At 9 weeks, the EFMT group showed a greater reduction in anxiety scores (−3.47 points) compared to the control group (−1.22 points), a statistically significant difference. The findings suggest that virtually-delivered EFMT is feasible, acceptable, and effective for late-life anxiety.
A systematic review of seven randomized controlled trials (355 participants) found that mindfulness-based interventions with a meditation component reduce symptoms of anxiety in older adults. The interventions varied across studies, but all reported decreased anxiety post-intervention. The evidence is promising but limited, highlighting the need for more randomized controlled trials to guide clinical practice.
Anxiety affects 6.4% of Canadian adults aged 65 and older, impairing memory and daily activities. Emotion-focused mindfulness therapy (EFMT), a meditation-based intervention that reduces anxiety in general populations, will be tested for feasibility with older adults via telehealth. This pilot randomized controlled trial will enroll 48 participants, randomly assigned to immediate EFMT or a wait-list control. Data will be collected at baseline, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks. Primary outcomes are recruitment, retention, and adherence; secondary outcomes track anxiety changes. Results will determine if a larger trial is warranted.