A single-session mindfulness-based intervention combined with app-based follow-up may reduce stress in family caregivers of people with dementia. This trial will test the effectiveness and feasibility of a 90-minute group session with mindfulness practices and psychoeducation, plus an 8-week self-practice toolkit and online sharing, compared to an education session on dementia care. The study is a single-blinded randomized controlled trial with assessments at baseline, 8 weeks, and 6 months. Primary outcome is perceived caregiving stress; secondary outcomes include depressive symptoms, positive aspects of caregiving, dyadic relationship, trait mindfulness, and neuropsychiatric symptoms of care recipients. Feasibility outcomes include eligibility, enrollment, attendance, adherence, and retention.
Depression in older adulthood is a public health concern. Mindfulness-based stress reduction and cognitive therapy can reduce depressive symptoms but require substantial time commitments. This protocol describes a randomized controlled trial testing a briefer, peer-supported mindfulness intervention. Community-dwelling adults over 60 with mild to moderately severe depressive symptoms will receive either a social worker-led six-session mindfulness intervention or the same intervention with peer supporters. A total of 138 participants will be recruited. Depressive symptoms, measured by the PHQ-9, will be assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and three months later. Data from a prior study will be matched as a comparison group. Results will suggest whether this scalable approach improves accessibility and mental health outcomes.