Abstract
An 8-week mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) group for older adults with depression and/or anxiety is described. This article is based on an exploratory study of this therapeutic approach and changes in participants' symptoms associated with participation. Pre-post data from 5 MBCT groups showed significant improvements in reported anxiety, ruminative thoughts, and sleep problems and a reduction in depressive symptoms. Case examples are presented to illustrate these symptom changes. Findings showed that this nonpharmacological intervention is acceptable to older adults and is associated with positive changes. Suggestions are provided for both practitioners and researchers interested in using MBCT with older adults.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 498-520 |
Number of pages | 23 |
Journal | Journal of Gerontological Social Work |
Volume | 57 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jul 2014 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- anxiety
- depression
- group therapy
- mindfulness
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
- Nursing (miscellaneous)