Mindfulness and quality of life across age groups in adult primary care patients in a nonmetropolitan area of Germany

Abstract Background We investigate the relationship between mindfulness and quality of life (QoL) in primary care patients from a non-metropolitan area in Germany. We compare mindfulness, psychological, and physical QoL between younger (< 65 years) and older (≥ 65 years) adults, and examine the association between mindfulness and QoL and the influence of age, while accounting for gender and number of illnesses.

Methods: Data from 102 participants who completed the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire – Brief Version, the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, and provided demographic and health information were analyzed. Multiple regression analyses were performed.

Results: We found associations between mindfulness and psychological ( b = 0.487, SE = 0.069, p < 0.001) and physical ( b = 0.445, SE = 0.078, p < 0.001) QoL, regardless of age. Age groups did not differ in mindfulness or QoL, but males in the younger age group ( M = 143.17, SD = 19.43) reported higher mindfulness scores than females ( M = 128.63, SD = 18.95, p = 0.002). The number of physical illnesses was associated with physical QoL ( b = − 4.386, SE = 1.239, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Mindfulness was significantly associated with QoL across age groups. Due to the cross-sectional design, no conclusions regarding directionality can be drawn. Nevertheless, the findings highlight mindfulness as a relevant correlate of QoL that may warrant further investigation in future research across the lifespan. Notably the number of physical illnesses was associated with physical, but not psychological QoL, highlighting the importance of investigating these associations separately within the WHOQOL-BREF framework.