An Individual Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities: A Case Study

Abstract

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have been adapted for use with a variety of populations, but empirical research on their use with residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) is lacking. This case report demonstrates successful implementation of an individual MBI with a Native American male who participated in an 8-week study at a LTCF. Measures of mindfulness, depression, rumination, and pain were administered at pre- and posttreatment. The participant showed improvements on all measures, particularly depression. Follow-up interviews indicated that the participant was still engaging in the mindfulness techniques and found them to be helpful 1 month and 1 year following completion of the program. Recommendations for implementing the program in LTCFs are provided. Despite the limitations of an individual MBI (I-MBI) approach in LTCF populations (e.g., understaffing), several positive implications exist, including greater access for LTCF residents with physical and other limitations, as well as flexibility in tailoring the I-MBI to meet each resident’s unique needs.