RESULTS OF A MINDFULNESS INTERVENTION FEASIBILITY STUDY AMONG ELDER AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN

Abstract

This study used mixed methods to examine the feasibility of implementing a 4-week mindfulness class with 10 elder African American women (aged 50 – 69). We measured changes in PSS, PANAS, LSI, Perseverative Cognition Scale, and the Multidimensional Inventory of Black Identity before and after the intervention. We also used these measures as a means to assess the salience of these scales to this population. Focus groups provided information on motivation, effective strategies, preferences, and perceived benefits of the mindfulness class. There was a significant change in numbers of participants who reported a meditation practice (1 person at time 1; 8 people at time 2, chi2(1) = 5.84, p < .05). There were marginally significant improvements in PSS, t(18) = 1.99, p = .06, and PANAS positive affect, t(18) = -1.99, p = .06. Stressors that motivated participation in the mindfulness class included family obligations and daily race-based microagressions. Effective strategies to address stressors salient to our participants included taking time for self-care, quiet prayer, removing oneself from stressful people, remembering one’s core self in the face of discrimination (i.e., centering), and having a positive mindset. Preferences included integration of faith-based language, using a facility recognized as a community center for the classes (e.g., church), and African American class instructors. Participants noted perceived benefits such as mindfulness as calming and centering, better body and pain awareness, an increased sense that one can better tune out chaos, and that the mindfulness group can provide a forum for race and diversity.