Mindfulness intervention led by social workers for older adults
Official title: Social Worker-led Mindfulness-based Intervention for Managing Depressive Symptoms in Community-dwelling Older Adults in Hong Kong: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06528132 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a mindfulness program led by social workers can help older adults with mild to moderate depression feel better, especially when they have peer supporters with them.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 207 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 13 sites (Eastern District and 12 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 23, 2024 |
| Main results expected | March 16, 2026 |
| Study ends | March 16, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | November 20, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06528132 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older who exhibit mild to moderate depressive symptoms.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe mental health conditions or imminent suicidal risk may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project evaluates the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) led by social workers to improve depressive symptoms in older adults with mild to moderate depression. It compares outcomes between participants receiving the intervention with and without peer supporters. The study also aims to identify mechanisms of change in managing depressive symptoms through this modified approach. Previous findings suggest that social workers can effectively support mindfulness practices, but their independent leadership in such interventions needs further exploration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a scalable and accessible method for managing depressive symptoms in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using modified mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, but the specific approach of social worker-led interventions is still being tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 60 years or older * have depressive symptoms of mild level or above, as indicated by scoring 5-14 on PHQ-9 * can give informed consent to participate Exclusion Criteria: * known history of autism, intellectual disability, schizophrenia-spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease, or dementia * current abuse of drugs or alcohol * difficulty in communication * imminent suicidal risk * timing or training is unsuitable for the participant
Where it's running
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Hong Kong Society for the Aged
Eastern District, Hong Kong Recruiting -
HKSKH Lok Man Alice Kwok Integrated Service Centre
Kowloon City, Hong Kong Recruiting -
SKH Holy Carpenter Church
Kowloon City, Hong Kong Recruiting -
The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong
Kwun Tong, Hong Kong Recruiting -
TWGHs Lok Hong Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness
Sai Wan, Hong Kong Recruiting -
Wilson T.S. Wang District Elderly Community Centre
Shatin, Hong Kong Recruiting
Show 7 more locations
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The Salvation Army Taipo Multi-Service Centre for Senior Citizens
Tai Po, Hong Kong Recruiting -
The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council
Tuenmen, Hong Kong Recruiting -
Haven of Hope District Elderly Community Service
Sai Kung, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting -
Wellness Zone - Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness
Sai Kung, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting -
HKSKH Western District Elderly Community Centre
Sai Wan, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting -
Aberdeen Kai-fong Welfare Association
Southern District, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting -
SKH Wong Tai Sin District Elderly Community Centre
Wong Tai Sin, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Terry YS Lum, PhD — Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Dara KY Leung, PhD
- Email: daralky@hku.hk
- Phone: 3917-0081
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.