Mindfulness training combined with cold water immersion effects on mood and perception of executive functioning in middle-aged and older adults: a pilot study.

Summary

Did you know combining mindfulness with cold water immersion can significantly uplift mood? A recent investigation explored this 20-week program in middle-aged adults and older adults. Participants reported notable reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms after the training. Interestingly, the positive impact on depression was even more pronounced for older adult participants, suggesting a powerful tool for healthy aging. While perceived executive functioning didn't change, the strong mood benefits highlight a promising approach.

Abstract

Age-related cognitive decline typically begins during middle age and persists into old age. In parallel, mood (and, in particular, anxiety and depression) can be a significant predictor of neurodegenerative pathologies. To prevent these negative consequences, mindfulness trainings were used to improve mood and executive functioning in middle-aged and older adults. Less is known about cold water immersion, which apparently favors cognitive enhancement and mood restoration. The current pilot study involved a sample of 46 adult participants (63% F; mean age: 60.67 years, SD: ±8.51), who completed a combined mindfulness and cold-water immersion program of 20 weeks. Before and after the training period, participants completed questionnaires about depressive and anxiety symptoms and executive functioning perception. A linear mixed model was run to evaluate pre-post differences with the presence of potential confounders (i.e., country, occupation, physical activity practice). The results showed a positive effect of the combined training on depression (mean difference = -2.59, t = -3.10, p = 0.003), with higher effectiveness for older adults compared to middle-aged participants (mean difference = -3.26, p = 0.042). Moreover, a significant effect of the training was found concerning anxiety (F1,50.08 = 7.70, p = 0.008), without differences between the two age groups (F1,51.06 = 0.10, p = 0.75). Finally, a non-significant effect of the combined training was found between pre- and post-treatment phase concerning executive functioning perception (F1,52.64 = 3.61, p = 0.06). Cold water immersion combined with mindfulness sessions could be considered by future researchers as a possible training for healthy aging.

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