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Davies JN, Faschinger A, Galante J, Van Dam NT. Prevalence and 20-year trends in meditation, yoga, guided imagery and progressive relaxation use among US adults from 2002 to 2022. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14987. [PMID: 38951149 PMCID: PMC11217305 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64562-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation are promoted as complementary approaches for health and wellbeing in the United States, but their uptake by different sociodemographic groups is unclear. This study assessed the prevalence and 20 year trends in the use of these practices in US adults between 2002-2022. We examined practice use and associations with sociodemographic and health factors in a population-weighted analysis of n = 134,959 participants across 5 cycles of the National Health Interview Survey. The overall use of meditation (18.3%, 60.53 million), yoga (16.8%, 55.78 million) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (6.7%, 22.22 million) increased significantly from 2002 to 2022. Growth was consistent across most sociodemographic and health strata, however users of 'Other' race (comprising 54% Indigenous Americans, Odds Ratios; ORs = 1.28-1.70) and users with moderate (ORs = 1.19-1.29) psychological distress were overrepresented across all practices, and those with severe psychological distress were overrepresented in meditation (OR = 1.33) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (OR = 1.42). Meditation use has accelerated over time for 65 + year olds (OR = 4.22), people not accessing mental health care (OR = 1.39), and less educated (OR = 4.02) groups, potentially reflecting unmet health needs. Health professionals should consider the extensive use of complementary practices in service and treatment planning and consider their risks and benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan N Davies
- Contemplative Studies Centre, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Level 1, Melbourne Connect, 700 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Anna Faschinger
- Contemplative Studies Centre, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Level 1, Melbourne Connect, 700 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Julieta Galante
- Contemplative Studies Centre, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Level 1, Melbourne Connect, 700 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Nicholas T Van Dam
- Contemplative Studies Centre, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Level 1, Melbourne Connect, 700 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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Pereira H, Silva P, Torre RD, dos Santos MR, Moutinho A, Solinho S, Proença C, Cabral J, Santos AJ. Men's Social Connectedness in Later Life: A Qualitative Study with Older Men. Geriatrics (Basel) 2024; 9:53. [PMID: 38667520 PMCID: PMC11050630 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics9020053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to understand men's social connectedness in later life in Portugal focusing on their perceptions, obstacles, strategies, and impact on well-being. The sample included 104 older Portuguese men over 65 years of age (Mage = 70.76 years). The qualitative data were the direct transcriptions of the answers given by participants to the electronic interview using thematic analysis. Findings revealed six overarching themes encompassing 18 subcategories: definitions of social connectedness (social support, community identity, mental health promotion, use of community structures), difficulties/obstacles in maintaining social connectedness (ageism, lack of initiative, physical limitations, psychological traits, resources), strategies/actions or resources to establish social connections (use of technology, use of community groups, leisure and sport activities, church/religion), negative impact of difficulties in establishing relevant social connections (mental health, physical health, relationships), positive actions from being socially connected (positive prescriptions to promote social connectedness), and concerns from being socially disconnected (health risks). These findings indicate that the lack of social connectedness creates social vulnerability in later life, and social support is needed to ensure safer aging among older men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Patricia Silva
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Renata Della Torre
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Marta Rosário dos Santos
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Adriana Moutinho
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Sofia Solinho
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Constança Proença
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | | | - Ana Jorge Santos
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
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Malaktaris A, McLean CL, Casmar P, Kangas J, Myers H, Chu G, Phillips RC, Maglione JE, Palmer BW, Lang AJ. Compassion Meditation for Distressed Older Veterans: A Feasibility Study. Clin Gerontol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38409790 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2024.2322056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Older Veterans are at elevated risk for psychological distress and may encounter barriers to accessing mental health services. Compassion Meditation (CM) promotes positive emotions and outcomes among distressed individuals; thus, we conducted a preliminary feasibility study of CM among distressed older Veterans. METHODS Participants included 25 Veterans aged 55+ (M = 69.0, SD = 10.6) with anxiety and/or depressive symptoms, recruited from primary care, mostly male (76.0%), and White (60.0%). CM consisted of 10 groups, which were transitioned from in-person to telehealth due to COVID-19. Feasibility indices included rates of intervention initiation and completion, and attendance. Participants completed measures of symptom severity and well-being pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS Of 25 enrolled participants, 88.0% (n = 22) attended at least one session, and 52% (n = 13) completed the intervention (attended six or more sessions). Among intervention completers, the average number of sessions attended was 9.46. Seven Veterans withdrew from intervention due to difficulties engaging via telehealth. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the feasibility of CM training in older Veterans with psychological distress, though dropouts highlighted potential need for additional strategies to facilitate telehealth participation. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Older Veterans appear amenable to meditation-based practices, provided they are easy to access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Malaktaris
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Caitlin L McLean
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Pollyanna Casmar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Julie Kangas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Hayley Myers
- Department of Psychology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Gage Chu
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Rachel C Phillips
- Department of Psychology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jeanne E Maglione
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Barton W Palmer
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Ariel J Lang
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
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Galluzzi S, Lanfredi M, Moretti DV, Rossi R, Meloni S, Tomasoni E, Frisoni GB, Chiesa A, Pievani M. Cognitive, psychological, and physiological effects of a web-based mindfulness intervention in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: an open study. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:151. [PMID: 38350854 PMCID: PMC10865647 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04766-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of effective strategies to maintain good mental health of older adults is a public health priority. Mindfulness-based interventions have the potential to improve psychological well-being and cognitive functions of older adults, but little is known about the effect of such interventions when delivered through internet. During the COVID-19 pandemic we evaluated short- and long-term cognitive, psychological, and physiological effects of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) delivered via web-based videoconference in healthy older adults. METHODS Fifty older adults participated in an 8-week MBI, which comprised structured 2-h weekly group sessions. A comprehensive evaluation encompassing cognitive (verbal memory, attention and processing speed, executive functions) and psychological assessments (depression and anxiety symptoms, mindfulness, worries, emotion regulation strategies, well-being, interoceptive awareness and sleep) was conducted. Additionally, electroencephalography (EEG) data were recorded before and after the MBI and at the 6-month follow-up (T6). Data were analyzed using an intention-to-treat approach, using linear mixed models adjusted for age. The effect size for time was computed as omega squared. RESULTS We observed significant improvements from pre-MBI to post-MBI and at the T6 across several measures. These improvements were notable in the areas of verbal memory (California Verbal Learning Test, p ≤ .007), attention and executive functions (Trail Making Test A and BA, p < .050), interoceptive awareness (Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness, p = .0002 for self-regulation and p < .05 for noticing, body listening, and trusting dimensions), and rumination (Heidelberg Form for Emotion Regulation Strategies, p = .018). These changes were associated with low to medium effect size. Moreover, we observed significant changes in EEG patterns, with a decrease in alpha1 (p = .004) and an increase in alpha2 (p < .0001) from pre-MBI to T6. Notably, improvements in TMTBA and rumination were correlated with the decrease in alpha1 (p < .050), while improvements in TMTA were linked to the increase in alpha2 (p = .025). CONCLUSIONS The results of our study show that a web-based MBI in older adults leads to improvements in cognitive and psychological measures, with associated modulations in specific brain rhythms. While these findings are promising, further controlled studies are required to validate these preliminary results. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial has been registered with the United States National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health Registry of Clinical Trials under the code NCT05941143 on July 12, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Galluzzi
- Laboratory Alzheimer's Neuroimaging and Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mariangela Lanfredi
- Unit of Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Davide Vito Moretti
- Alzheimer's Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Rossi
- Unit of Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Serena Meloni
- Unit of Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Evita Tomasoni
- Laboratory Alzheimer's Neuroimaging and Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Chiesa
- Istituto Mente E Corpo, Bologna, Italy
- Associazione Di Psicologia Cognitiva - Scuola Di Psicoterapia Cognitiva, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Pievani
- Laboratory Alzheimer's Neuroimaging and Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni Di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
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D'elia Y, Whitfield T, Schlosser M, Lutz A, Barnhofer T, Chételat G, Marchant NL, Gonneaud J, Klimecki O. Impact of mindfulness-based and health self-management interventions on mindfulness, self-compassion, and physical activity in older adults with subjective cognitive decline: A secondary analysis of the SCD-Well randomized controlled trial. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 16:e12558. [PMID: 38440222 PMCID: PMC10910278 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Older adults experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD) have a higher risk of dementia. Reducing this risk through behavioral interventions, which can increase emotional well-being (mindfulness and compassion) and physical activity, is crucial in SCD. METHODS SCD-Well is a multicenter, observer-blind, randomized, controlled, superiority trial. Three hundred forty-seven participants (mean [standard deviation] age: 72.7 [6.9] years; 64.6% women) were recruited from memory clinics in four European sites to assess the impact of an 8-week caring mindfulness-based approach for seniors (CMBAS) and a health self-management program (HSMP) on mindfulness, self-compassion, and physical activity. RESULTS CMBAS showed a significant within-group increase in self-compassion from baseline to post-intervention and both a within- and between-group increase to follow-up visit (24 weeks). HSMP showed a significant within- and between-group increase in physical activity from baseline to post-intervention and to follow-up visit. DISCUSSION Non-pharmacological interventions can differentially promote modifiable factors linked to healthy aging in older adults with SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ylenia D'elia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Behavioral NeuroscienceUniversity of Technology DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Tim Whitfield
- Division of Psychiatry Faculty of Brain SciencesUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Marco Schlosser
- Division of Psychiatry Faculty of Brain SciencesUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Department of PsychologyFaculty of Psychology and Educational SciencesUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Inserm U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 UniversityLyonFrance
| | | | - Gaël Chételat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND “Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,” NeuroPresage Team, CyceronCaenFrance
| | - Natalie L. Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry Faculty of Brain SciencesUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Julie Gonneaud
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND “Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,” NeuroPresage Team, CyceronCaenFrance
| | - Olga Klimecki
- Department of PsychologyFaculty of Psychology and Educational SciencesUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Developmental PsychologyUniversity of JenaJenaGermany
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Denkova E, Barry J, Zanesco AP, Rooks J, Rogers SL, Jha AP. Online mindfulness training for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: a randomized controlled trial using a multi-method assessment approach. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:130-141. [PMID: 37702364 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2242301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic drastically accelerated the need for studies examining the effectiveness of programs to bolster psychological well-being, particularly for at-risk groups, such as older adults (OAs). Mindfulness Training (MT) has been suggested as a well-suited program for this purpose. The present study examined the impact of a 4-week online, trainer-led MT course tailored for OAs during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Fifty-three OAs were randomly assigned to either Group A or Group B. Group A received the online MT course during the 4-week interval between the first (T1) and second (T2) testing sessions, while Group B received the same MT course during the interval between T2 and the third testing session (T3). The testing sessions included measures of mindfulness, emotional well-being, psychological health, and cognitive performance. In addition, a very brief survey was sent every week during the T1-T2 and T2-T3 intervals to assess weekly emotional well-being. RESULTS The findings revealed that MT may improve some, albeit not all, aspects of mindfulness and well-being, while no significant results were noted for outcomes measuring psychological health and cognitive performance. CONCLUSIONS These findings are discussed in the context of the evolving COVID-19 situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Denkova
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Jordan Barry
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Anthony P Zanesco
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | | | - Scott L Rogers
- School of Law, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Amishi P Jha
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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Schlosser M, Klimecki OM, Collette F, Gonneaud J, Kliegel M, Marchant NL, Chételat G, Lutz A. An 18-month meditation training selectively improves psychological well-being in older adults: A secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294753. [PMID: 38039341 PMCID: PMC10691714 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As the world population is ageing, it is vital to understand how older adults can maintain and deepen their psychological well-being as they are confronted with the unique challenges of ageing in a complex world. Theoretical work has highlighted the promising role of intentional mental training such as meditation practice for enhancing human flourishing. However, meditation-based randomised controlled trials in older adults are lacking. We aimed to investigate the effects of meditation training on psychological well-being in older adults. METHODS This study presents a secondary analysis of the Age-Well trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02977819), which randomised 137 healthy older adults (age range: 65 to 84 years) to an 18-month meditation training, an active comparator (English language training), or a passive control. Well-being was measured at baseline, mid-intervention, and 18-month post-randomisation using the Psychological Well-being Scale (PWBS), the World Health Organisation's Quality of Life (QoL) Assessment psychological subscale, and composite scores reflecting the meditation-based well-being dimensions of awareness, connection, insight, and a global score comprising the average of these meditation-based dimensions. RESULTS The 18-month meditation training was superior to English training on changes in the global score (0.54 [95% CI: 0.26, 0.82], p = 0.0002) and the subscales of awareness, connection, insight, and superior to no-intervention only on changes in the global score (0.54 [95% CI: 0.26, 0.82], p = 0.0002) and awareness. Between-group differences in psychological QoL in favour of meditation did not remain significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. There were no between-group differences in PWBS total score. Within the meditation group, psychological QoL, awareness, insight, and the global score increased significantly from baseline to 18-month post-randomisation. CONCLUSION The longest randomised meditation training conducted to date enhanced a global composite score reflecting the meditation-based well-being dimensions of awareness, connection, and insight in older adults. Future research is needed to delineate the cognitive, affective, and behavioural factors that predict responsiveness to meditation and thus help refine the development of tailored meditation training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Schlosser
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Olga M. Klimecki
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Clinical Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabienne Collette
- GIGA-CRC In Vivo Imaging, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Psychology and Neuroscience of Cognition Research Unit, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Julie Gonneaud
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders", Neuropresage Team, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Matthias Kliegel
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Natalie L. Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gaël Chételat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders", Neuropresage Team, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Eduwell Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center Inserm U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
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Lopes S, Shi L, Pan X, Gu Y, Dengler-Crish C, Li Y, Tiwari B, Zhang D. Meditation and Cognitive Outcomes: A Longitudinal Analysis Using Data From the Health and Retirement Study 2000-2016. Mindfulness (N Y) 2023; 14:1705-1717. [PMID: 37808263 PMCID: PMC10557979 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-023-02165-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective We aimed to assess the association between meditation practice and cognitive function over time among middle-aged and older adults. Method We included Health and Retirement Study (HRS) participants assessed for meditation practice in the year 2000 as part of the HRS alternative medicine module (n = 1,160) and were followed up for outcomes over 2000-2016 period. We examined the association between meditation ≥ twice a week vs none/less frequent practice and changes in the outcomes of recall, global cognitive function, and quantitative reasoning using generalized linear regression models. Stratified analyses among persons with/without self-reported baseline depressive symptoms were conducted to assess the link between meditation and cognitive outcomes. Results Among our full study sample, meditation ≥ twice a week was not significantly associated with total recall [β ; 95% CI: -0.97, 0.57; p = 0.61], global cognitive function [β ; 95% CI: -1.01, 1.12; p = 0.92], and quantitative reasoning [β ; 95% CI: -31.27, 8.32; p = 0.26]. However, among those who did not have self-reported depressive symptoms at baseline, meditation ≥ twice a week was associated with improvement in cognitive outcomes such as total recall [β ; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.18; p = 0.01] and global cognitive function [β ; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.40; p = 0.01] over time. Conclusions Frequent meditation practice might have a protective effect on cognitive outcomes over time, but this protection could be limited to those without self-reported baseline depressive symptoms. Future studies could incorporate more precise meditation practice assessment, investigate the effect of meditation on cognitive outcomes over time, and include more rigorous study designs with randomized group assignment. Pre-registration This study is not preregistered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snehal Lopes
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Lu Shi
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Xi Pan
- Department of Sociology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas 78666, USA
| | - Yian Gu
- The Department of Neurology, The Department of Epidemiology, The Taub Institute for Research in Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, and The Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Christine Dengler-Crish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Biplav Tiwari
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Donglan Zhang
- New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
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Gu H, Liang T, Xin Z, Lu Z, Li Q, Hong H. Impact of Long-Term Shaolin Zen Meditation on Emotional Processing in Aging: A Visual ERP Study. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:513. [PMID: 37366765 DOI: 10.3390/bs13060513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The aging process is always accompanied by a decline in cognitive and emotional functions. Although previous studies have identified the positive effects of different meditative practices on emotional and cognitive functions, few studies have investigated the most primitive Chinese meditation-Shaolin Zen meditation. In particular, data are extremely limited regarding the brain mechanism of the effects of Shaolin Zen meditation on cognitive and emotional functions during aging. The current study aimed to explore the effects of long-term Shaolin Zen meditation practice on event-related potentials (ERPs) during facial emotion recognition in aging. ERPs were recorded from 16 monks with long-term meditation experience and 20 controls without meditation experience. The significant age-related degenerative changes in the early ERP components did not present in the meditators but only in the controls without meditation experience. Additionally, we found no group differences in the late P3 component. These findings suggest that long-term Shaolin Zen meditation practice can counteract the age-related cognitive decline in the "down-top" automatic processing of emotional stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Gu
- Institute of Behavior and Psychology, School of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Tiantian Liang
- Institute of Behavior and Psychology, School of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Zhaoyang Xin
- Institute of Behavior and Psychology, School of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Zilu Lu
- Institute of Behavior and Psychology, School of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qiaoling Li
- Institute of Behavior and Psychology, School of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Hao Hong
- Zhongyuan Wushu Research Institute, Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, China
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10
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Baez-Lugo S, Deza-Araujo YI, Maradan C, Collette F, Lutz A, Marchant NL, Chételat G, Vuilleumier P, Klimecki O. Exposure to negative socio-emotional events induces sustained alteration of resting-state brain networks in older adults. NATURE AGING 2023; 3:105-120. [PMID: 37118519 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-022-00341-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Basic emotional functions seem well preserved in older adults. However, their reactivity to and recovery from socially negative events remain poorly characterized. To address this, we designed a 'task-rest' paradigm in which 182 participants from two independent experiments underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging while exposed to socio-emotional videos. Experiment 1 (N = 55) validated the task in young and older participants and unveiled age-dependent effects on brain activity and connectivity that predominated in resting periods after (rather than during) negative social scenes. Crucially, emotional elicitation potentiated subsequent resting-state connectivity between default mode network and amygdala exclusively in older adults. Experiment 2 replicated these results in a large older adult cohort (N = 127) and additionally showed that emotion-driven changes in posterior default mode network-amygdala connectivity were associated with anxiety, rumination and negative thoughts. These findings uncover the neural dynamics of empathy-related functions in older adults and help understand its relationship to poor social stress recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Baez-Lugo
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Yacila I Deza-Araujo
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christel Maradan
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabienne Collette
- GIGA-CRC In Vivo Imaging Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Antoine Lutz
- EDUWELL team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre (INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 University), Lyon, France
| | | | - Gaël Chételat
- Université Normandie, Inserm, Université de Caen-Normandie, Inserm UMR-S U1237, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Patrik Vuilleumier
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Olga Klimecki
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, Dresden, Germany.
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11
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Engert V, Klimecki OM, Kanske P. Spreading positive change: Societal benefits of meditation. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1038051. [PMID: 37124270 PMCID: PMC10130585 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1038051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Research over the past decades has revealed a variety of beneficial effects of meditation training. These beneficial effects span the levels of health and well-being, cognition, emotion, and social behavior. Around the same time, sociologists have shown that traits and outcomes on the individual level have the potential to spread in communities over three or more degrees. This means, for example, that changes can spread from one person to the next, and on to yet another person. Here, we propose that meditation-induced changes may likewise spread through the social networks of meditation practitioners. Such spreading may happen by positively influencing others through prosocial actions, improved cognitive functioning, and increased positive affect. Positive affective states and their underlying physiological correlates may also be shared in the literal sense. We argue that the spreading of positive meditation effects could provide the basis for collective responses to some of the urgent challenges we face in our current time and society and call for future meditation research to examine the phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Engert
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psychooncology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Social Stress and Family Health Research Group, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Veronika Engert,
| | - Olga Maria Klimecki
- Clinical Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Philipp Kanske
- Social Stress and Family Health Research Group, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Clinical Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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12
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Quadrato motor training (QMT) influences IL-1β expression and creativity: Implications for inflammatory state reduction and cognitive enhancement. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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13
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MacAulay RK, Halpin A, Andrews HE, Boeve A. Trait mindfulness associations with executive function and well-being in older adults. Aging Ment Health 2022; 26:2399-2406. [PMID: 34766526 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1998352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The current study investigated trait mindfulness associations with distinct aspects of executive function. We also aimed to characterize relationships between trait mindfulness with measures of psychological risk and resilience within adults aged 55-87 years. METHOD In this cross-sectional study, 121 adults completed neuropsychological measures of working memory, mental set-shifting, and inhibition, as well as a battery of well-validated psychological self-report measures. The Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) measured trait mindfulness. RESULTS Trait mindfulness was associated with greater age, years of education and self-efficacy, and less perceived stress, depression, anxiety, and subjective cognitive concerns. Hierarchal multiple regression analyses showed that trait mindfulness was a significant predictor of inhibitory control, even after adjusting for age, education, and global cognition in the model. Trait mindfulness was not significantly associated with working memory or mental set-shifting. Follow-up analyses using the PROCESS macro revealed that trait mindfulness mediated the relationship between perceived stress and inhibitory control. CONCLUSION Trait mindfulness was associated with measures of greater well-being and mental health. Our results also indicate that trait mindfulness may provide psychological resilience by attenuating perceived stress and enhancing the capacity to intentionally suppress irrelevant information and automatic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy Halpin
- The Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
| | | | - Angelica Boeve
- The Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
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14
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Whitfield T, Demnitz-King H, Schlosser M, Barnhofer T, Frison E, Coll-Padros N, Dautricourt S, Requier F, Delarue M, Gonneaud J, Klimecki OM, Lutz A, Paly L, Salmon E, Schild AK, Walker Z, Jessen F, Chételat G, Collette F, Wirth M, Marchant NL, Michon A, Sanchez-Valle R, Schwars C, Lai C, Coueron R, Arenaza-Urquijo EM, Poisnel G, Delphin-Combe F, Asselineau J, Krolak-Salmon P, Molinuevo JL, Allais F, Bachelet R, Belleoud V, Benson C, Bosch B, Casanova MP, Espérou H, Goldet K, Hamdidouche I, Leon M, Meiberth D, Mueller H, Mueller T, Ourry V, Reyrolle L, Salinero A, Sannemann L, Satgunasingam Y, Steinhauser H, Vuilleumier P, Wallet C, Wingrove J. Effects of a mindfulness-based versus a health self-management intervention on objective cognitive performance in older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD): a secondary analysis of the SCD-Well randomized controlled trial. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:125. [PMID: 36068621 PMCID: PMC9446839 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01057-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Older individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) perceive that their cognition has declined but do not show objective impairment on neuropsychological tests. Individuals with SCD are at elevated risk of objective cognitive decline and incident dementia. Non-pharmacological interventions (including mindfulness-based and health self-management approaches) are a potential strategy to maintain or improve cognition in SCD, which may ultimately reduce dementia risk.
Methods
This study utilized data from the SCD-Well randomized controlled trial. One hundred forty-seven older adults with SCD (MAge = 72.7 years; 64% female) were recruited from memory clinics in four European countries and randomized to one of two group-based, 8-week interventions: a Caring Mindfulness-based Approach for Seniors (CMBAS) or a health self-management program (HSMP). Participants were assessed at baseline, post-intervention (week 8), and at 6-month follow-up (week 24) using a range of cognitive tests. From these tests, three composites were derived—an “abridged” Preclinical Alzheimer’s Cognitive Composite 5 (PACC5Abridged), an attention composite, and an executive function composite. Both per-protocol and intention-to-treat analyses were performed. Linear mixed models evaluated the change in outcomes between and within arms and adjusted for covariates and cognitive retest effects. Sensitivity models repeated the per-protocol analyses for participants who attended ≥ 4 intervention sessions.
Results
Across all cognitive composites, there were no significant time-by-trial arm interactions and no measurable cognitive retest effects; sensitivity analyses supported these results. Improvements, however, were observed within both trial arms on the PACC5Abridged from baseline to follow-up (Δ [95% confidence interval]: CMBAS = 0.34 [0.19, 0.48]; HSMP = 0.30 [0.15, 0.44]). There was weaker evidence of an improvement in attention but no effects on executive function.
Conclusions
Two non-pharmacological interventions conferred small, non-differing improvements to a global cognitive composite sensitive to amyloid-beta-related decline. There was weaker evidence of an effect on attention, and no evidence of an effect on executive function. Importantly, observed improvements were maintained beyond the end of the interventions. Improving cognition is an important step toward dementia prevention, and future research is needed to delineate the mechanisms of action of these interventions and to utilize clinical endpoints (i.e., progression to mild cognitive impairment or dementia).
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03005652.
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15
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Pacini A, Vseteckova J, Haider S. The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Couples in Later Life. A Mixed Methods Systematic Review. Clin Gerontol 2022; 46:315-329. [PMID: 35767429 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2022.2093687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review current quantitative and qualitative evidence on the physical and mental health outcomes and participant experiences following mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for couples over the age of 65. METHODS The search strategy used PubMed; Web of Science; PsycInfo; The Dementia Evidence Toolkit; NIH RePORTER; NIH Clinical Trials.gov and Scopus databases and followed the JBI framework. RESULTS Four studies were included, of these, three were described as patient-carer dyads. Overall, the studies suggested that standardized, eight-week mindfulness interventions may be feasible for older adult independent couples and caregiving dyads, including people with cognitive decline, but the available evidence should be considered with caution. CONCLUSIONS Further high-quality studies investigating specific older adult dyads with sensitive and appropriate outcome measures are needed. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Whilst older adult mindfulness groups delivered to couples are feasible, conclusions about the effects of mindfulness on older adult caregiving and/or romantic couples are impossible to establish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Pacini
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University and Clinical Psychologist in Later Life Mental Health Care, Gatehouse Charity, Milton 5 Keynes, UK
| | - Jitka Vseteckova
- Wellbeing and Social Care, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Sharif Haider
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
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16
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Ziegler DA, Anguera JA, Gallen CL, Hsu WY, Wais PE, Gazzaley A. Leveraging technology to personalize cognitive enhancement methods in aging. NATURE AGING 2022; 2:475-483. [PMID: 35873177 PMCID: PMC9302894 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-022-00237-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
As population aging advances at an increasing rate, efforts to help people maintain or improve cognitive function late in life are critical. Although some studies have shown promise, the question of whether cognitive training is an effective tool for improving general cognitive ability remains incompletely explored, and study results to date have been inconsistent. Most approaches to cognitive enhancement in older adults have taken a 'one size fits all' tack, as opposed to tailoring interventions to the specific needs of individuals. In this Perspective, we argue that modern technology has the potential to enable large-scale trials of public health interventions to enhance cognition in older adults in a personalized manner. Technology-based cognitive interventions that rely on closed-loop systems can be tailored to individuals in real time and have the potential for global testing, extending their reach to large and diverse populations of older adults. We propose that the future of cognitive enhancement in older adults will rely on harnessing new technologies in scientifically informed ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Ziegler
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscape, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Correspondence should be addressed to David A. Ziegler or Adam Gazzaley. ;
| | - Joaquin A. Anguera
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscape, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Courtney L. Gallen
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscape, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Wan-Yu Hsu
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Peter E. Wais
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscape, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adam Gazzaley
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscape, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Correspondence should be addressed to David A. Ziegler or Adam Gazzaley. ;
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17
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Making epistemic goods compatible: knowledge-making practices in a lifestyle intervention RCT on mindfulness and compassion meditation. BIOSOCIETIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1057/s41292-022-00272-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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18
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Strikwerda-Brown C, Ozlen H, Pichet Binette A, Chapleau M, Marchant NL, Breitner JC, Villeneuve S. Trait Mindfulness Is Associated With Less Amyloid, Tau, and Cognitive Decline in Individuals at Risk for Alzheimer's Disease. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 3:130-138. [PMID: 36712573 PMCID: PMC9874144 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mindfulness, defined as nonjudgmental awareness of the present moment, has been associated with an array of mental and physical health benefits. Mindfulness may also represent a protective factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we tested the potential protective effect of trait mindfulness on cognitive decline and AD pathology in older adults at risk for AD dementia. Methods Measures of trait mindfulness, longitudinal cognitive assessments, and amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau positron emission tomography scans were collected in 261 nondemented older adults with a family history of AD dementia from the PREVENT-AD (Pre-symptomatic Evaluation of Experimental or Novel Treatments for AD) observational cohort study. Multivariate partial least squares analyses were used to examine relationships between combinations of different facets of trait mindfulness and 1) cognitive decline, 2) Aβ, and 3) tau. Results Higher levels of mindful nonjudgment, describing, and nonreactivity were associated with less cognitive decline in attention, global cognition, and immediate and delayed memory. Higher levels of mindful nonjudgment and nonreactivity were related to less Aβ positron emission tomography signal in bilateral medial and lateral temporoparietal and frontal regions. Higher levels of mindful acting with awareness, describing, nonjudgment, and nonreactivity were associated with less tau positron emission tomography signal in bilateral medial and lateral temporal regions. Conclusions Trait mindfulness was associated with less cognitive decline and less Aβ and tau in the brain in older adults at risk for AD dementia. Longitudinal studies examining the temporal relationship between trait mindfulness and AD markers, along with mindfulness intervention studies, will be important for further clarifying the potential protective benefits of mindfulness on AD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherie Strikwerda-Brown
- Centre for Studies on the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Cherie Strikwerda-Brown, Ph.D.
| | - Hazal Ozlen
- Centre for Studies on the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alexa Pichet Binette
- Centre for Studies on the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marianne Chapleau
- Centre for Studies on the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Natalie L. Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John C.S. Breitner
- Centre for Studies on the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sylvia Villeneuve
- Centre for Studies on the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,Address correspondence to Sylvia Villeneuve, Ph.D.
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19
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Baumgartner T, Hausfeld J, Dos Santos M, Knoch D. Who initiates punishment, who joins punishment? Disentangling types of third-party punishers by neural traits. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:5703-5717. [PMID: 34523772 PMCID: PMC8559474 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The act of punishing unfair behavior by unaffected observers (i.e., third‐party punishment) is a crucial factor in the functioning of human societies. In everyday life, we see different types of individuals who punish. While some individuals initiate costly punishment against an unfair person independently of what other observers do (independent punishers), others condition their punishment engagement on the presence of another person who punishes (conditional punishers). Still others do not want to partake in any sort of punishment (nonpunishers). Although these distinct behavioral types have a divergent impact on human society, the sources of heterogeneity are poorly understood. We present novel laboratory evidence on the existence of these three types. We use anatomical brain characteristics in combination with stated motives to characterize these types. Findings revealed that independent punishers have larger gray matter volume in the right temporo‐parietal junction compared to conditional punishers and nonpunishers, an area involved in social cognition. Conditional punishers are characterized by larger gray matter volume in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a brain area known to be involved in behavioral control and strategic reasoning, compared to independent punishers and nonpunishers. Finally, both independent punishers and nonpunishers are characterized by larger gray matter volume in an area involved in the processing of social and monetary rewards, that is, the bilateral caudate. By using a neural trait approach, we were able to differentiate these three types clearly based on their neural signatures, allowing us to shed light on the underlying psychological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Baumgartner
- Department of Social Neuroscience and Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hausfeld
- Department of Social Neuroscience and Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,CREED, Amsterdam School of Economics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Miguel Dos Santos
- Department of Social Neuroscience and Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daria Knoch
- Department of Social Neuroscience and Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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20
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Yoga improves older adults’ Affective functioning and resting-state brain connectivity: Evidence from a pilot study. AGING AND HEALTH RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ahr.2021.100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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21
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Diachenko M, Smith KK, Fjorback L, Hansen NV, Linkenkaer-Hansen K, Pallesen KJ. Pre-retirement Employees Experience Lasting Improvements in Resilience and Well-Being After Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Front Psychol 2021; 12:699088. [PMID: 34335417 PMCID: PMC8321239 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.699088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The socio-economic benefits of interventions to prevent stress and related mental health problems are enormous. In the labor market, it is becoming desirable to keep employees for as long as possible. Since aging implies additional stressors such as increased risk of illness, and added pressure by professional tasks such as transferring knowledge, or learning new technologies, it is of particular relevance to offer stress-reduction to pre-retirement employees. Here, we report the effects of an eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) intervention on mental well-being in 60-65-year-old work-active Danish employees, compared to a waiting-list control group. We observed improvements in resilience (Brief Resilience Scale) and mental well-being (WHO-5) not only at the end of the intervention, but also at the 12-month follow-up measurement that was preceded by monthly booster sessions. Interestingly, whereas well-being usually refers to experiences in the past weeks or months, we observed increasing Comfort in the MBSR-intervention group during a 5-minute eyes-closed rest session suggesting that this therapeutic effect of MBSR is measurable in how we feel even during short periods of time. We argue that MBSR is a cost-effective intervention suited for pre-retirement employees to cultivate resilience to prevent stress, feel more comfortable with themselves, maintain a healthy work-life in the last years before retirement, and, potentially, stay in their work-life a few more years than originally planned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Diachenko
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, (CNCR), Amsterdam, Neuroscience, VU Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kristina K. Smith
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, (CNCR), Amsterdam, Neuroscience, VU Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lone Fjorback
- Danish Center for Mindfulness, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Brabrand, Denmark
| | - Niels Viggo Hansen
- Danish Center for Mindfulness, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Brabrand, Denmark
| | - Klaus Linkenkaer-Hansen
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, (CNCR), Amsterdam, Neuroscience, VU Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karen Johanne Pallesen
- Danish Center for Mindfulness, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Brabrand, Denmark
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22
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Mahlo L, Windsor TD. Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Efficacy of an App-Based Mindfulness-Meditation Program Among Older Adults. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 61:775-786. [PMID: 32663286 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnaa093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Few studies have focused on the utility of mindfulness-meditation for well-being in older adults. The present study investigated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an app-based mindfulness-meditation program among older adults. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A community-based sample of 46 participants aged between 63 and 81 (M = 70.85, SD = 4.70) engaged with a 30-day app-based mindfulness-meditation program for 10 min daily on their smartphones. Each meditation session comprised focusing on the breath, mentally scanning the body, monitoring the mind's activity, and cultivating a nonjudgmental orientation toward experiences. Participants completed questionnaires at baseline, day 10, and day 30. RESULTS On average, participants completed 25 sessions and almost 4 h of application use across the 30 days. Results of linear mixed effects models showed significant improvements in positive affect, negative affect, and life satisfaction across the study interval, but no meaningful change in total mindfulness or perceived stress. Furthermore, relative to high levels of smartphone efficacy, low smartphone efficacy was associated with higher perceived stress and negative affect, and less life satisfaction at baseline; and steeper improvements on these outcomes across the study interval. On average, older adults rated the app-based mindfulness-meditation training as interesting, enjoyable, valuable, and useful. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS The findings provide preliminary support for the feasibility and acceptability of an app-based mindfulness-meditation program with community-dwelling older adults and demonstrate potential benefits for well-being. Results suggest the value of further research investigating the efficacy of digital mindfulness-meditation interventions for older adults via larger randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leeann Mahlo
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tim D Windsor
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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23
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Innes KE, Montgomery C, Selfe TK, Wen S, Khalsa DS, Flick M. Incorporating a Usual Care Comparator into a Study of Meditation and Music Listening for Older Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline: A Randomized Feasibility Trial. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2021; 5:187-206. [PMID: 33981956 PMCID: PMC8075554 DOI: 10.3233/adr-200249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies suggest meditation and music listening (ML) may improve cognitive and psychosocial outcomes in adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). However, lack of a usual care group has limited conclusions. OBJECTIVE To assess the: 1) feasibility of incorporating an enhanced usual care (EUC) comparator in a trial of Kirtan Kriya meditation (KK) and ML for adults experiencing SCD; and 2) preliminary effects of active treatment (KK/ML) versus an EUC program. METHODS Forty participants with SCD were randomized 1:1:2 to a 12-week KK, ML, or EUC program. KK and ML participants were asked to practice 12 minutes/day; EUC participants were given a comprehensive educational packet regarding healthy aging and strategies for improving/maintaining brain health and asked to record any activities or strategies used. Feasibility was assessed using measures of retention, adherence, treatment expectancies, and participant satisfaction, as well as information from exit questionnaires and daily practice/activity logs. Cognitive functioning, stress, mood, sleep-quality, and health-related quality of life (QOL) were measured pre- and post-intervention using well-validated instruments. RESULTS Thirty-two participants (80%) completed the 3-month study, with retention highest in the EUC group (p < 0.05). Active treatment participants averaged 6.0±0.4 practice sessions/week, and EUC participants, 7.5±0.6 brain health activities/week. Treatment expectancies were similar across groups. EUC participants indicated high satisfaction with the program and study. Despite limited study power, the active treatment group showed significantly greater gains in subjective memory functioning (ps≤0.025) and nonsignificant improvements in cognitive performance (TMT-B), perceived stress, QOL, and mood (ps≤0.08) compared to the EUC group. CONCLUSION Findings of this pilot feasibility trial suggest incorporation of an EUC program is feasible, and that participation in a simple 12-week relaxation program may be helpful for adults with SCD versus engagement in an EUC program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim E. Innes
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Caitlin Montgomery
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Terry Kit Selfe
- Health Science Center Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sijin Wen
- Department of Biostatistics, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Madison Flick
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, West Virginia University HSC, Morgantown, WV, USA
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Sikkes SA, Tang Y, Jutten RJ, Wesselman LM, Turkstra LS, Brodaty H, Clare L, Cassidy-Eagle E, Cox KL, Chételat G, Dautricourt S, Dhana K, Dodge H, Dröes RM, Hampstead BM, Holland T, Lampit A, Laver K, Lutz A, Lautenschlager NT, McCurry SM, Meiland FJM, Morris MC, Mueller KD, Peters R, Ridel G, Spector A, van der Steen JT, Tamplin J, Thompson Z, Bahar-Fuchs A. Toward a theory-based specification of non-pharmacological treatments in aging and dementia: Focused reviews and methodological recommendations. Alzheimers Dement 2021; 17:255-270. [PMID: 33215876 PMCID: PMC7970750 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-pharmacological treatments (NPTs) have the potential to improve meaningful outcomes for older people at risk of, or living with dementia, but research often lacks methodological rigor and continues to produce mixed results. METHODS In the current position paper, experts in NPT research have specified treatment targets, aims, and ingredients using an umbrella framework, the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System. RESULTS Experts provided a snapshot and an authoritative summary of the evidence for different NPTs based on the best synthesis efforts, identified main gaps in knowledge and relevant barriers, and provided directions for future research. Experts in trial methodology provide best practice principles and recommendations for those working in this area, underscoring the importance of prespecified protocols. DISCUSSION We conclude that the evidence strongly supports various NPTs in relation to their primary targets, and discuss opportunities and challenges associated with a unifying theoretical framework to guide future efforts in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sietske A.M. Sikkes
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yi Tang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Roos J. Jutten
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Linda M.P. Wesselman
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lyn S. Turkstra
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Henry Brodaty
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing and Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, School of Psychiatry, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Linda Clare
- Centre for Research in Ageing and Cognitive Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Erin Cassidy-Eagle
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kay L. Cox
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gaël Chételat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND “Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,”Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Sophie Dautricourt
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND “Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders,”Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Klodian Dhana
- Section on Nutrition and Nutritional Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hiroko Dodge
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan,Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rose-Marie Dröes
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Benjamin M. Hampstead
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Thomas Holland
- Section on Nutrition and Nutritional Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Amit Lampit
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Laver
- Department of Rehabilitation, Aged and Extended Care, College of Medicine and Public Health Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon University, Lyon, France
| | - Nicola T. Lautenschlager
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- NorthWestern Mental Health, Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susan M. McCurry
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Franka J. M. Meiland
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martha Clare Morris
- Section on Nutrition and Nutritional Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kimberly D. Mueller
- Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ruth Peters
- Department of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Sydney, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Aimee Spector
- Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jenny T. van der Steen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jeanette Tamplin
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zara Thompson
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alex Bahar-Fuchs
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Research on Ageing, Health, and Wellbeing, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Schlosser M, Demnitz-King H, Whitfield T, Wirth M, Marchant NL. Repetitive negative thinking is associated with subjective cognitive decline in older adults: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:500. [PMID: 33036587 PMCID: PMC7547434 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02884-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the absence of a cure or effective treatment for dementia, attention has shifted towards identifying risk factors for prevention. Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) describes self-perceived worsening of cognition despite unimpaired performance on neuropsychological tests. SCD has been associated with an increased dementia risk and steeper memory decline. Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is a transdiagnostic process that manifests across several mental health disorders associated with increased vulnerability to dementia. RNT has thus been proposed as a candidate marker of risk for dementia and, relatedly, could contribute to the manifestation of SCD. We aimed to investigate the relationship between SCD and RNT alongside other proposed psychological risk/protective factors for dementia and cognitive decline. METHODS In a cross-sectional online survey, 491 older adults (mean = 64.9 years, SD = 4.2; 63.1% female) completed measures of RNT, personality traits, purpose in life, worry, rumination, and meditation practice. SCD was assessed continuously via self-perceived cognitive function (Neuro-QoL) and categorically via endorsement (yes/no) of memory complaints. Regression models, using a stepwise backwards elimination, were built to assess associations between SCD, demographics, and all risk/protective factors. RESULTS A total of 24.2% of participants reported memory complaints. In the final prediction models, RNT was the only psychological variable associated with lower self-perceived cognitive function and with a higher likelihood of memory complaints. CONCLUSIONS This study empirically corroborates the theoretical relationship between SCD and RNT. Longitudinal studies are needed to establish whether RNT is a prodromal symptom or an independent risk factor, and whether RNT can be a promising construct for future research on SCD and dementia risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Schlosser
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 6th Floor, Wing A, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK. .,Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Harriet Demnitz-King
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 6th Floor, Wing A, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK
| | - Tim Whitfield
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 6th Floor, Wing A, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK
| | - Miranka Wirth
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Natalie L. Marchant
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 6th Floor, Wing A, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK
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26
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Chaix R, Fagny M, Cosin-Tomás M, Alvarez-López M, Lemee L, Regnault B, Davidson RJ, Lutz A, Kaliman P. Differential DNA methylation in experienced meditators after an intensive day of mindfulness-based practice: Implications for immune-related pathways. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 84:36-44. [PMID: 31733290 PMCID: PMC7010561 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human methylome is dynamically influenced by psychological stress. However, its responsiveness to stress management remains underexplored. Meditation practice has been shown to significantly reduce stress level, among other beneficial neurophysiological outcomes. Here, we evaluated the impact of a day of intensive meditation practice (t2-t1 = 8 h) on the methylome of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in experienced meditators (n = 17). In parallel, we assessed the influence of a day of leisure activities in the same environment on the methylome of matched control subjects with no meditation experience (n = 17). DNA methylation profiles were analyzed using the Illumina 450 K beadchip array. We fitted for each methylation site a linear model for multi-level experiments which adjusts the variation between t1 and t2 for baseline differences. No significant baseline differences in methylation profiles was detected between groups. In the meditation group, we identified 61 differentially methylated sites (DMS) after the intervention. These DMS were enriched in genes mostly associated with immune cell metabolism and ageing and in binding sites for several transcription factors involved in immune response and inflammation, among other functions. In the control group, no significant change in methylation level was observed after the day of leisure activities. These results suggest that a short meditation intervention in trained subjects may rapidly influence the epigenome at sites of potential relevance for immune function and provide a better understanding of the dynamics of the human methylome over short time windows.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Chaix
- Unité d'Eco-anthropologie (EA), Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Université Paris Diderot, 75016 Paris, France.
| | - M Fagny
- Génétique Quantitative et Évolution, Evolution - Le Moulon, INRA, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, France
| | - M Cosin-Tomás
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - M Alvarez-López
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Facultat de Farmàcia, Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Nucli Universitari de Pedralbes, Barcelone, Spain
| | - L Lemee
- Plate-forme de Génotypage des Eucaryotes, Pôle Biomics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France; Plateforme Biomics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - B Regnault
- Plate-forme de Génotypage des Eucaryotes, Pôle Biomics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France; Biology of Infection Unit, Inserm U1117. Pathogen Discovery Laboratory, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - R J Davidson
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA
| | - A Lutz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
| | - P Kaliman
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.
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27
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Understanding mindfulness, one moment at a time: an introduction to the special issue. Curr Opin Psychol 2019; 28:vi-x. [PMID: 31451390 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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28
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Abstract
Empathy and empathy-related processes, such as compassion and personal distress, are recognized to play a key role in social relations. This review examines the role of empathy in interpersonal and intergroup relations, including intractable conflicts. Despite the limitations of empathy, there is growing evidence that empathy and compassion are associated with more prosocial behavior in interpersonal relations. Furthermore, empathy and compassion have been associated with more favorable attitudes and higher readiness for reconciliation across a range of intergroup settings. This review ends by summarizing recent evidence for the beneficial effects of compassion training on interpersonal and intergroup relations and by outlining new avenues for future research on how compassion training could reduce intergroup conflicts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga M. Klimecki
- Swiss Centre for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
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