Enhancing Whole-Person Care Through Mindfulness: Qualitative Insights from Patients with Parkinson’s Disease

People with Parkinson's disease who took part in a community-based mindfulness rehabilitation program reported that the practice reshaped their illness experience, fostered a sense of community, and had lasting positive impacts. The 61 Chinese participants described mindfulness as transformative, offering psychosocial and spiritual benefits beyond physical symptom relief. Group dynamics, mindful interactions, and culturally relevant affirmations motivated engagement, while challenges in experiential learning highlighted the need for tailored support. The findings suggest that integrating mindfulness into gerontological care can empower self-care through a whole-person approach, emphasizing personalized techniques and supportive environments for routine practice.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Mindfulness has emerged as a promising mental health and wellness practice, but perceptions and experiences regarding its use for chronic illness care have not been well elucidated. This study explored the perceptions and experiences of people living with Parkinson’s disease on using mindfulness techniques for rehabilitation. Method This is a qualitative descriptive study with thematic analysis. Sixty-one Chinese people with Parkinson’s disease, participating in a community-based mindfulness rehabilitation program, completed individual semi-structured interviews. Results Three themes emerged: (1) reshaping illness experience through embodiment, (2) cultivating a sense of community through mindful engagement, and (3) fostering lasting mindfulness impact. Participants viewed mindfulness as transformative, offering psychosocial and spiritual benefits beyond physical relief. Group dynamics, mindful interactions, and culturally relevant affirmations were crucial factors in motivating participants in mindful engagement. Challenges in experiential learning highlighted the need for tailored support and resources for sustained mindfulness practice. Conclusions The findings emphasize the transformative potential of mindfulness in empowering self-care practices through a whole-person approach. Integrating mindfulness into gerontological care is crucial to optimize holistic wellness, particularly for people with Parkinson’s disease. Efforts should focus on personalizing disease-specific mindfulness techniques, expanding mind–body experiences beyond goal-driven practice, and fostering a supportive environment for routine integration.