Evaluating the Feasibility of Mindfulness Intervention and its effects on Spiritual Well-Being and Perceived Stress among Community-Dwelling Elders: A Pilot Study

Background: Mindfulness Intervention (MI) has received a lot of attention as a holistic intervention that can improve the spiritual well-being and reduce stress. Previous studies have reported that MI had an effect on... [ view full abstract ]

Background: Mindfulness Intervention (MI) has received a lot of attention as a holistic intervention that can improve the spiritual well-being and reduce stress. Previous studies have reported that MI had an effect on depression, and psychological distress. However, there are limited number of studies evaluating the feasibility of such program.
Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of mindfulness MI, and to examine the impact of MI on improving spiritual well-being and reducing perceived stress among community-dwelling elders.
Design: A pilot intervention study
Sample: A convenient sample of 21 community-dwelling elders aged 60 years and older.
Procedure: Prior to enrollment in the study cognitive status of each participant was assessed. The 60-minute MI sessions were conducted weekly for 6 weeks by a trained Mindfulness Meditation instructor. Participants were asked to complete 25 minutes of daily meditation during the program using a pre-recorded program on a customized M3P player. Also they completed a daily adherence log.
Measures: Surveys completed pre and post MI program: The Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS), Daily Spiritual Experience Scale (DSES), The Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).
Findings: The majority of the sample was Caucasian, female and ranging in age from 60-83 years. Results indicated a significant reduction in PSS and DSES scores, and significant improvement in SWBS and FMI scores pre-intervention and six week follow-up (p < .05). Qualitative reports indicated that this was a very useful intervention, easy to do. Difficulties experienced were related to participants missing sessions due to lack of transport and other appointments.
Conclusions: The MI program was useful in reducing the stress and improving spiritual wellbeing. Modifications to the program could include virtual attendance, development of self-directed program with qualified instructors available for guidance. Further modification of the MP3 player to accommodate lack of dexterity in the older adult.