Brief Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Older Adults: The Mindful Aging Memory (MAM) Program

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have the potential to positively impact cognitive health and well-being in older adults. Given the rapidly aging population, novel behavioral interventions for cognitive decline are critically needed. Thus, our objective was to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and perceived benefits of brief meditative practices (10 min or less) among cognitively and socially diverse older adults.

In Study 1, researchers conducted an introductory mindfulness workshop with 23 low-income older adults to assess the acceptability of brief meditative practices through an anonymous survey. In Study 2, a brief 4-week MBI designed for older adults was conducted. Twenty-two participants were randomized to in-person or televideo groups to evaluate differences in feasibility and acceptability of the delivery modality. Assessments were performed at baseline and post-intervention. Sessions included formal and informal practices with homework assignments.

Thematic content analyses identified well-being, learning, community, and improved attention/awareness as the main benefits of mindfulness practice. Low-income older adults found a 1-hr introduction to meditative practices beneficial for attention and emotion. Study 2 found televideo and in-person modalities to be highly acceptable and feasible. Meditative practice was associated with enhanced cognitive flexibility on neuropsychological testing within the in-person but not the televideo group.

This data provides support for the feasibility and acceptability of brief mindfulness practices with cognitively and socially diverse older adults. Participants universally reported cognitive and emotional benefits of brief mindfulness practice. These results support the notion that even a few minutes of mindfulness practice can provide cognitive and emotional health benefits.

This study is not preregistered.