Loneliness is common among Chinese older adults. A randomized controlled trial compared an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention for older adults (MBOA) with a social contact control (SCC) in 245 community-dwelling lonely adults aged 60 or older in Hong Kong. At 12 months, there was no significant difference in loneliness reduction between the two groups, though both improved (within-group effect size: MBOA -0.58, SCC -0.31). MBOA participants showed reduced depressive symptoms and a trend toward less anxiety at 6 months compared with SCC. The findings suggest MBOA is not superior to social contact for loneliness but may benefit psychological symptoms.
Healthcare professionals face high stress and burnout risk. This pilot study tested an online 4-week Loving-kindness and Compassion Meditation (LKCM) training for healthcare workers in Hong Kong. Eighty-two participants were randomly assigned to LKCM or a waitlist. Most (77.5%) attended at least three of four sessions, and over 90% rated the course satisfactory. Overall, no significant differences emerged between groups on psychological outcomes. However, among the 23 participants with moderate or higher baseline stress, LKCM showed immediate benefits: reduced emotional exhaustion, increased personal accomplishment, and greater social connectedness. Online LKCM appears feasible and acceptable, with potential benefits for stressed healthcare professionals.