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Mindfulness-based stress reduction and loneliness in older adults: two randomized controlled trials

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Listed:
  • Annie L Nguyen
  • Janine M Dutcher
  • Kirk W Brown
  • Emily K Lindsay
  • Carol M Greco
  • Aidan G C Wright
  • Autumn M Gallegos
  • Kathi L Heffner
  • J David Creswell

Abstract

ObjectivesLoneliness is one of the most robust risk factors for morbidity and accelerated mortality among older adults, and effective interventions are needed. However, interventions to reduce loneliness have shown limited success, especially in this population. Indeed, research suggests that simply increasing social contact might not combat loneliness; instead, addressing the cognitive and emotional mechanisms of loneliness might be more effective. Here, in two randomized controlled trials (RCT), we explored whether mindfulness training could reduce loneliness.MethodsThis study tested an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program on loneliness in older adults across two RCTs. Study 1 compared MBSR to a waitlist (WL) control, and Study 2 compared MBSR to the Health Enhancement Program (HEP).ResultsFrom baseline to follow-up, MBSR significantly reduced loneliness compared to WL in Study 1 (b = −1.680, SE = 0.273, 95% CI [−3.325, −0.034], p = .045, β = −0.402). In Study 2, MBSR and HEP both reduced loneliness (main effect of time: b = −3.598, SE = 0.957, 95% CI [−5.481, −0.1.716], p

Suggested Citation

  • Annie L Nguyen & Janine M Dutcher & Kirk W Brown & Emily K Lindsay & Carol M Greco & Aidan G C Wright & Autumn M Gallegos & Kathi L Heffner & J David Creswell, 2025. "Mindfulness-based stress reduction and loneliness in older adults: two randomized controlled trials," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 80(12), pages 178.-178..
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:geronb:v:80:y:2025:i:12:p:gbaf178.
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