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

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment207 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong (other)
Locations13 sites (Eastern District and 12 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06528132 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

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Depressive Symptoms, Modified mindfulness-based intervention

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.