A-131 Treating Parkinson’s Disease with Mindfulness: A Systematic Review

Mindfulness has been recognized as an evidence-based treatment in a range of psychological and medical (i.e., chronic pain, dementia, diabetes) conditions. Despite several randomized and non-randomized control trials, there continues to be a lack of consensus regarding mindfulness as an effective treatment for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The systematic analysis revealed that mindfulness was primarily effective in reducing non-motor symptoms of PD, except for one survey study of PD patients, which indicated that mindfulness was associated with improved motor symptoms. Otherwise, mindfulness resulted in decreased anxiety and distress while also improving social support. Of the two studies that included caregivers in treatment, mindfulness was associated with reduced caregiver burden. The results supported the use of mindfulness as an effective adjunct to PD treatment, with the strongest effects on non-motor symptoms and caregiver distress. Notably, the studies included were limited by small sample sizes and patients with mild to moderate symptoms of PD. Further random controlled trials with larger sample sizes and differing degrees of PD severity are needed to conclusively determine the effects of mindfulness in treating PD.