Introduction to mindfulness: A pilot exploratory study among memory clinic attendees

Background Evidence from the literature suggests that group mindfulness interventions result in improved quality of life, less depressive symptoms and improved subjective sleep quality among patients with memory problems [1] . Objectives To design and pilot a brief mindfulness intervention for Memory Clinic attendees. Aims To develop a non-pharmacological low-resource intervention for Memory Clinic attendees. Methods An introduction to mindfulness pack, designed by author CD, includes a booklet introducing the concept of mindfulness, instructions for meditation exercises with an accompanying CD. Memory clinic attendees diagnosed with subjective memory complaints or mild cognitive impairment were invited to take part. Participants completed standardised questionnaires pre- and post-intervention, which examined subjective memory, depression and anxiety symptoms, subjective sleep quality, worry and mindfulness levels. Qualitative information was also gathered. Results Of twenty-four participants (66.6% female, mean age 60.8 years), 14 (58.3%) completed the 6-week study. There was no statistical difference in anxiety and depressive symptoms, quality of life, sleep quality and worry levels pre- and post-intervention among participants. However, 100% of participants found the mindfulness intervention beneficial, with 64.3% ( n  = 9) reporting a subjective improvement in both memory and concentration. Conclusions In this small pilot study, a brief self-guided mindfulness intervention was found to be acceptable to a heterogenous group of Memory Clinic attendees.