Can mindfulness-based interventions benefit people with dementia? Drawing on the evidence from a systematic review in populations with cognitive impairments. (1st November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chan, Joanne; Leung, Dara K. Y.; Walton, Holly; Wong, Gloria H. Y.; Spector, Aimee
• Is Part Of: Expert review of neurotherapeutics. Volume 20:Number 11(2020)
• Page Start: 1143
• Page End: 1156
• Publication Date: 2020-11-01
• Subjects: Dementia -- mild cognitive impairment -- mindfulness-based cognitive therapy -- mindfulness-based stress reduction -- intervention modification; Neuropharmacology -- Periodicals; 615.7805
• DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1810571
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-7175

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Non-pharmacological interventions that promote quality of life in people with dementia are urgently needed. To accelerate development, evidence-based psychotherapies used in other populations can be considered. Mindfulness-based interventions with standardized protocols, namely mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), may be effective in people with dementia, although tailoring for cognitive impairment may be needed. Evidence from other cognitive disorders can inform research. Areas covered: The authors reviewed 12 studies of MBCT/MBSR conducted in people with cognitive impairments, including 10 in stroke, traumatic brain injury, and mild cognitive impairment; and two in dementia. Protocol modifications, outcomes, and evidence quality were analyzed. Common themes to address cognitive difficulties included: shortened session duration, use of memory aids, increase in repetition, simplified language, and omitted retreat sessions. Expert opinion: MBCT and MBSR can be applied without drastic modifications in people with cognitive impairment. Their effectiveness in people with dementia remains unknown: empirical studies using/adapting evidence-based MBCT/MBSR protocols in this population is seriously lacking. Studies used a diverse range of outcome measures, which made direct comparison difficult. Further research with high methodological quality, sufficient power, and longer follow-up is urgently needed. Development of manuals would enhance the replicability of future studies.