Mindfulness and cognitive training interventions that address intersecting cognitive and aging needs of older adults
Andrew David Eaton, Sean B. Rourke, Shelley L. Craig, Barbara Fallon, Charles A. Emlet, Ellen Katz, Sharon Lynn Walmsley
Journal of Social Work October 16, 2023 DOI: 10.1177/14680173231207961 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Realist review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Older adults with cognitive impairment |
| Interventions | Mindfulness-based stress reduction Cognitive training Brain training activities |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Citations | 5 |
| Key findings | The authors conclude that the evidence base is still emerging, since most of the 13 included studies were pilot or feasibility trials. They propose that combining mindfulness-based stress reduction with brain training activities may be the most promising model for older adults with cognitive impairment, and they identify a need for psychometric scale development on the benefits of brain training activities. |
Abstract
Summary Mindfulness and cognitive training interventions are promising models to address impacts (e.g., anxiety and stress) of cognitive impairment among older adults. Combining strategies may yield better outcomes than models offered in isolation. However, there are numerous uncertainties about these interventions, potential for combination, and implementation. Social workers are well placed to offer these interventions. Findings From an initial search of 3,538 records, 13 studies were included in the final review. Mindfulness studies focused on stress reduction or cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive training studies applied stimulation or activity approaches. Results indicate that the field is still emerging, as most studies were pilot or feasibility trials. A combination of mindfulness-based stress reduction and brain training activities may offer the most promising model for older adults with cognitive impairment, based on outcome assessments and other factors. A common limitation among the reports was detailed on engaging older adults with cognitive challenges in the design and implementation of these interventions. Applications This realist review deepens the understanding of how, why, for whom, and in what circumstances a combination of mindfulness and cognitive training could be most successful for social workers to address intersecting cognitive and aging needs of older adults. Building evidence on combining mindfulness-based stress reduction and brain training activities among older adults with cognitive impairment could yield promising results, and this review identifies implementation considerations. The review also found a need for psychometric scale development on the benefits of brain training activities.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on meditation, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindfulness training as a clinical intervention: A conceptual and empirical review. Clinical populations | 2003 | Review | |
| Mindfulness: Theoretical Foundations and Evidence for its Salutary Effects | 2007 | Review | |
| Mindfulness Interventions | 2016 | Review | |
| Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation | 2017 | Review | |
| Mindfulness and acceptance: expanding the cognitive-behavioral tradition | 2005 | Review |
Citations in the library
Cites 8
- Using Self-Report Assessment Methods to Explore Facets of Mindfulness Assessment January 27, 2006
- Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Psychiatry. FOCUS: The Journal of Lifelong Learning in Psychiatry January 24, 2018
- Mindfulness and meditation: treating cognitive impairment and reducing stress in dementia. Reviews in the Neurosciences September 25, 2018
- The Effects of Mindfulness on Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment. Journal of Alzheimer's disease reports December 2, 2017
- Can mindfulness-based interventions influence cognitive functioning in older adults? A review and considerations for future research. Aging & Mental Health November 2017
and 3 more in the library