Broadening horizons: Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for older people experiencing depression
Peter Keohane
FPOP Bulletin: Psychology of Older People 2014 DOI: 10.53841/bpsfpop.2014.1.125.49 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Qualitative Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 8 |
| Population | Older people in a community-based group |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) |
| Topics | Depression Meditation |
| Key findings | Two of the four analyzed participants showed significant and reliable reductions in depression and distress after adapted MBCT, while mindfulness showed little change. Participants' questionnaire responses identified helpful and less helpful aspects of the adapted program, leading to recommendations for further adaptation. The authors argue these results support prior calls to develop MBCT for older people. |
Abstract
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is an integrative psychological approach linking mindful meditation with cognitive therapy. It has a strong evidence base in treating recurrent depression. However, limited research has been completed with older people. The present study evaluates one adapted, community based MBCT group (N=8) in a partial replication of Smith, Graham and Senthinathan (2007). Levels of depression, psychological distress and mindfulness were assessed on a single case basis using standardised measures. Responses from an anonymous client satisfaction questionnaire provided qualitative data for thematic analysis. Significant and reliable reductions in depression and distress were found in two of the four analysed participants. Little change in mindfulness was observed. Thematic analysis illustrated aspects of adapted MBCT that participants found helpful and less helpful, and recommendations for further adaptation were generated. This study builds on previous research advocating MBCT for older people and discusses the theoretical and clinical implications for future service provision.
Comparable studies
Other case reports and case series on depression, most cited first.