The Effect of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program on Feelings of Being a Geriatric Burden in Older Women

THE EFFECT OF A MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION PROGRAM APPLIED TO ELDERLY WOMEN ON FEELINGS OF BEING A GERIATRIC BURDEN

This study was planned as a non-randomized, quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design, aiming to examine the effect of a mindfulness-based stress reduction program applied to older women on their feelings of being a geriatric burden. The sample of the study will consist of 72 women aged 60 years and over who have at least one chronic illness, are enrolled in an elderly university program conducted at a foundation university, volunteer to participate in the research, and have no communication difficulties. Data will be collected using a Personal Information Form and the Geriatric Feelings of Burden Scale (GFBS).

By investigating the effect of a mindfulness-based stress reduction program on feelings of being a geriatric burden among older women, this study will fill an important gap in the literature. In particular, there is a limited number of studies examining the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in older age groups, and this research offers a low-cost and feasible approach to enhancing individual well-being. Additionally, the findings obtained from a culturally distinct population will provide original contributions to the international literature in this field.

Inclusion Criteria:

Women aged 60 years or older

Having at least one chronic disease

Enrolled in a senior university program at a foundation university

Willing to participate in the study

Able to communicate without any problems

Exclusion Criteria:

Individuals who do not voluntarily agree to participate in the study

Individuals with communication difficulties (e.g., severe hearing loss, speech disorder, advanced cognitive impairment)

Individuals with serious psychiatric or neurological disorders that prevent participation

Individuals who show severe emotional distress or agitation during the interview

Individuals with difficulty speaking or understanding Turkish

Individuals who do not have sufficient time to actively participate in the study

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