Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy With Older Adults: An Exploratory Study.

Abstract An 8-week Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) group for older adults with depression and/or anxiety is described. This paper is based on an exploratory study of this therapeutic approach and changes in participants' symptoms associated with participation. Pre-post data from five 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 non-pharmacological 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.
PMID: 24329497