Digital mindfulness practice helps with late-life depression

The study tested the FocusZen Mindfulness Stress Reduction System . It is a digital platform for practicing mindfulness with elements of biofeedback based on EEG data. The peculiarity of the approach is that a person does not just perform exercises, but also receives information about the state of their brain activity in real time. This helps to focus better and track the effect of practice.

The participants were 54 people with mild to moderate late-life depression (LLD). They were randomly divided into two equal groups of 27 people:

• the experimental group took a six-week course with daily sessions in the FocusZen system;
• the control group received general health education without specialized practices.

The effectiveness was assessed using standard scales: the severity of depression was measured using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (17 items), anxiety was measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). In addition, an EEG research analysis was conducted in the experimental group to track changes in brain activity.

Participants who used the FocusZen system showed significant improvements in several parameters:

• symptoms of depression decreased;
• anxiety decreased;
• sleep quality improved;
• there was a moderate but noticeable increase in cognitive performance.

The experimental group also had higher rates of response to intervention and remission compared to the control group.

During the EEG analysis, the scientists found an increase in theta and alpha activity in the frontal regions of the brain. These rhythms are usually associated with relaxation, internal concentration, and a state of calm vigilance. At the same time, the authors emphasize that although changes in brain activity coincided with improved well-being, their exact mechanism and causal relationships are still unclear and require further study.

Depression in late life, as in any other age, is a serious problem, as it not only worsens the quality of life, but is often associated with accelerated cognitive decline. Traditional treatment methods (psychotherapy, medications) are not always available or convenient for older people. Digital solutions can be a good alternative or supplement to them: They allow you to practice at home, at your own pace, and the feedback makes the practice more understandable and motivating.