A Systematic Review of Third-Wave Therapies to Reduce Distress and Improve Wellbeing and Quality of Life in People with Parkinson's Disease.
Clinical gerontologist May 31, 2025 Demetra Christodoulou, Suzanne Reeves, Naashoma P Carvalho et al. 2 citations
Third-wave psychotherapies, particularly mindfulness-based interventions, show promise for reducing psychological distress and improving well-being and quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease, but evidence is limited. A systematic review of ten randomized controlled trials found that nine tested mindfulness-based approaches and one tested acceptance and commitment therapy. Methodological quality was moderate to high, but sample sizes were small, and only one trial was adequately powered. The largest trial reported significant benefits of Mindfulness Yoga for depression, anxiety, psychological well-being, and quality of life. Other findings were mixed. Pilot and feasibility studies indicated mindfulness interventions were well received. No conclusions could be drawn about non-mindfulness therapies due to insufficient data. Larger trials are needed to confirm clinical meaningfulness.