Mindfulness-based stress reduction for older adults: effects on executive function, frontal alpha asymmetry and immune function.

ABSTRACT:

Background/aims

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has enhanced cognition, positive emotion, and immunity in younger and middle-aged samples; its benefits are less well known for older persons. Here we report on a randomized controlled trial of MBSR for older adults and its effects on executive function, left frontal asymmetry of the EEG alpha band, and antibody response.

Methods

Older adults (n = 201) were randomized to MBSR or waiting list control. The outcome measures were: the Trail Making Test part B/A (Trails B/A) ratio, a measure of executive function; changes in left frontal alpha asymmetry, an indicator of positive emotions or approach motivation; depression, mindfulness, and perceived stress scores, and the immunoglobulin G response to a protein antigen, a m

SUBMITTER: Moynihan JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3831656 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature