“BrainHeart”: Pilot Study on a Novel Application for Elderly Well-Being Based on Mindfulness Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Author:

Bruschetta Roberta1ORCID,Latella Desiree2ORCID,Formica Caterina2,Campisi Simona13ORCID,Failla Chiara1,Marino Flavia1,Iacono Isidoro Serena1ORCID,Giambò Fabio Mauro2ORCID,Bonanno Lilla2ORCID,Cerasa Antonio45ORCID,Quartarone Angelo2,Marino Silvia2,Pioggia Giovanni1ORCID,Calabrò Rocco Salvatore2ORCID,Tartarisco Gennaro1ORCID

Affiliation:

1. National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, C/O via Leanza, Istituto Marino, Mortelle, 98164 Messina, Italy

2. IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, via Palermo S.S. 113—C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy

3. C.O.T. Cure Ortopediche Traumatologiche S.P.A, 98124 Messina, Italy

4. Institute of BioImaging and Complex Biological Systems (IBSBC-CNR), via T. Campanella, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy

5. S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy

Abstract

The rising prevalence of mental illness is straining global mental health systems, particularly affecting older adults who often face deteriorating physical health and decreased autonomy and quality of life. Early detection and targeted rehabilitation are crucial in mitigating these challenges. Mindfulness acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) holds promise for enhancing motivation and well-being among the elderly, although delivering such psychological interventions is hindered by limited access to services, prompting exploration of remote delivery options like mobile applications. In this paper, we introduce the BrainHeart App (v.1.1.8), a mobile application tailored to improve physical and mental well-being in seniors. The app features a 10-day ACT program and other sections promoting healthy lifestyle. In a pilot study involving twenty participants, individuals engaged in daily mental exercises for 10 days using the app. Clinical evaluations, including assessments of psychological flexibility, overall cognitive profile, mindfulness disposition, cognitive fusion, and heart rate collected with Polar H10, were conducted at baseline (T0) and one month post-intervention (T1). Analysis revealed significant improvements in almost all neuropsychological scores, with high usability reported (system usability scale average score: 82.3 ± 9.31). Additionally, a negative correlation was found between usability and experiential avoidance (r = −0.51; p = 0.026), and a notable difference in heart rate was observed between baseline and post-intervention (F-value = 3.06; p-value = 0.09). These findings suggest that mindfulness-ACT exercises delivered via the BrainHeart App can enhance the well-being of elderly individuals, highlighting the potential of remote interventions in addressing mental health needs in this population.

Publisher

MDPI AG

Reference47 articles.

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