Effects of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on Depression and Anxiety in Late Life: A Meta-Analysis

Objective: This study aims to assess the efficacy of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in alleviating depression in older adults.

Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in 4 electronic databases and 1 registered database from inception up to July 2021 to identify relevant trials. The meta-analysis employed Hedge’s g, along with its 95% CI, and associated z and P-values for the included studies, utilizing Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.

Results: Qualitative synthesis was performed on 5 eligible studies. Evaluation of methodological quality and bias risk across the papers involved scrutiny of key variables due to the heterogeneous research formats. Our findings indicated a significant moderating effect of MBCT against current depressive symptoms in older adults (g=0.53, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) =0.31-0.75) and a similar effect size for anxiety (g=0.43, 95% CI=0.20-0.65). However, caution is warranted due to the limited number of studies and potential publication bias. Further extensive research with longer follow-up measures and larger sample sizes is essential.

Conclusion: This study underscores the effectiveness of MBCT as a treatment for anxiety and despair in older individuals. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy should be recommended for its positive impact on older adults with depression, and the involvement of authorized psychiatric nurses is crucial for conducting successful MBCT interventions. However, caution is warranted due to the limited number of studies and potential publication bias. Further extensive research with longer follow-up measures and larger sample sizes is essential.

Cite this article as: Ye J, Pan Y, Wu C, et al. Effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on depression and anxiety in late life: A meta-analysis. Alpha Psychiatry. 2024;25(1):1-8.