Transcendental meditation, mindfulness, and longevity: an experimental study with the elderly

Author(s): Chandler, H., Langer, E., Newmann, R., Davies, J.

Journal/Book: Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 1989; 57: 950-964.

Abstract: Can direct change in state of consciousness through specific mental techniques extend human life and reverse age-related declines? To address this question. 73 residents of 8 homes for the elderly (mean age g 81 years) were randomly assigned among no treatment and 3 treatments highly similar in external structure and expectations: the Transcendental Meditation (TM) program. mindfulness training (MF) in active distinction making, or a relaxation (low mindfulness) program. A planned comparison indicated that the "restful alert" TM group improved most. followed by MF, in contrast to relaxation and no-treatment groups, an paired associate learning: 2 measures of cognitive flexibility; mental health; systolic blood pressure;, and ratings of behavioral flexibility, aging, and treatment efficacy. The MF group improved most, followed by TM, an perceived control and word fluency. After 3 years. survival rate was 100% for TM and 87.5% for MF in contrast to Iowa rates for other groups.

Zurück | Weiter