Molecular Processes of the Relaxation Response in Older Adults

Molecular Processes of the Relaxation Response in Older Adults

The purpose of this study is to examine the molecular (nitric oxide) and biochemical (epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol and ACTH) parameters that are associated with RR elicitation and which may counteract the effects of acute stress in the elderly.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 60-80 years of age
• healthy individuals
• willing and able to attend treatment sessions
• willing to learn how to do and practice the relaxation-response
• access to a working telephone
• read and write English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major medical or psychiatric illness
• asthma or seasonal allergies (resulting in nitric oxide levels >60 ppb)
• smoking
• previous relaxation-response practice
• current use of the following medications:systemic corticosteroids, anti-convulsants/psychotics, immunosuppressants, cytotoxic therapy, anabolic steroids, antidepressants (other than SSRIs), dicyclomine, bile acid binding resins, or sympathomimetic medication