Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety, Stress, and Quality of Life in Family Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, and quality of life in family caregivers of people with dementia. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted within the PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and SCOPUS databases to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Depending on I2 statistic values for heterogeneity, either a random effects model or fixed effects model was used. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to the types of control groups and MBIs. Results: 15 RCTs met the eligibility criteria. Meta-analyses showed medium to large effects of MBIs on depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, and quality of life at the immediate posttest. Small to large effects of MBIs were found at follow-up. Conclusions: Future high-quality studies involving different types of MBIs and delivery modes are needed to better understand effects of MBIs on family caregivers of people with dementia and examine effective intervention features.