Mindfulness intervention led by social workers for older adults
Social Worker-led Mindfulness-based Intervention for Managing Depressive Symptoms in Community-dwelling Older Adults in Hong Kong: A Randomised Controlled Trial
NA · The University of Hong Kong · NCT06528132
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
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 207 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong (other) |
| Locations | 13 sites (Eastern District and 12 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06528132 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older who exhibit mild to moderate depressive symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with severe mental health conditions or imminent suicidal risk may not benefit from this intervention.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Eastern District and 12 other locations
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- Aberdeen Kai-fong Welfare Association — Southern District, Hong Kong (NOT_YET_RECRUITING)
- The Salvation Army Taipo Multi-Service Centre for Senior Citizens — Tai Po, Hong Kong (RECRUITING)
- The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council — Tuenmen, Hong Kong (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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Depressive Symptoms, Modified mindfulness-based intervention