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Social Worker-led Mindfulness-based Intervention for Older People

ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT06528132

PhaseNA

Enrollment207

SponsorThe University of Hong Kong

Age60 Years and older

SexALL

I'm interested View official listing

Conditions studied

Depressive Symptoms

About this study

Preliminary findings from a previous study conducted by the investigators suggest that a task-shared approach with modified mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) supported by social workers is beneficial in managing depressive symptoms and improving mindful non-reactivity among older adults. However, the possibility for social workers to lead a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) independently to improve its scalability and service accessibility remains unclear. The project aims to: 1. Evaluate the effectiveness of social worker-led MBI in improving depression in older adults with mild to moderate depressive symptoms as compared to care as usual; 2. Examine the effectiveness of incorporating peer supporters in social worker-led MBI compared to those without peer supporters; 3. To identify potential mechanisms of change in MBI for depressive symptoms.

Interventions

Behavioral: Mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) (enhanced with peer supporters) — Mindfulness-based intervention combines mindfulness meditation with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) elements to reduce or prevent recurrent major depressive disorders. On-site support and regular follow-up by peer supporters.
Behavioral: Experimental: social worker-led MBI (without peer supporters) — Mindfulness-based intervention combines mindfulness meditation with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) elements to reduce or prevent recurrent major depressive disorders.

Primary outcomes

Change from baseline depression at Week 6 and Week 18 (Baseline and Week 6, Week 18)
Change from baseline anxiety at Week 6 and Week 18 (Baseline and Week 6, Week 18)

Eligibility information

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

Study locations

Hong Kong Society for the Aged, Eastern District, Hong Kong
HKSKH Lok Man Alice Kwok Integrated Service Centre, Kowloon City, Hong Kong
SKH Holy Carpenter Church, Kowloon City, Hong Kong
The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
Haven of Hope District Elderly Community Service, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Wellness Zone - Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
HKSKH Western District Elderly Community Centre, Sai Wan, Hong Kong
TWGHs Lok Hong Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness, Sai Wan, Hong Kong
Wilson T.S. Ｗang District Elderly Community Centre, Shatin, Hong Kong
Aberdeen Kai-fong Welfare Association, Southern District, Hong Kong

Showing 10 of 13 reported sites. See the official listing for all locations.

Before you participate: Varda Clinical is an independent discovery tool, not the study sponsor or a medical provider. Eligibility can only be determined by the official study team. Discuss potential risks and benefits with a qualified healthcare professional.

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov. Record last refreshed by Varda Clinical: 2026-10-13.