The effect of mindfulness‐based interventions on cognitive deficits from mild cognitive impairment

Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) involves an objective and subjective decline in cognitive functions unrelated to aging and does not meet the diagnostic criteria for dementia. The deficits experienced with MCI can result in diminished cognitive and neural resources, and subsequently, functional impairment as well as heightened susceptibility for developing Alzheimer’s disease. Significantly, compensation can result in cognitive restructuring and neuroplasticity, which may provide a window for interventions that may assist with slowing the progression to dementia. Namely, across the literature to date, mindfulness‐based interventions (MBI)s has been shown to affect cognitive deficits across pathologies in the aging population as well as areas of the brain (e.g., increase grey and white matter volume, as well as cerebral blood flow). Therefore, further investigation into the effect of MBIs on cognitive deficits associated with MCI is warranted. Method The information from the current literature and consultations with professionals working directly with individuals diagnosed with MCI was synthesized to discover if MBI’s improve cognitive functioning. For this review, MBI’s included mindfulness‐based stress reduction, mindfulness‐based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, yoga, meditation, mindfulness‐awareness practices, integrated mind‐body training, and metacognitive therapy, as well as multi‐component treatment modalities that incorporate mindfulness. Results Fifteen studies showed various mindfulness‐based interventions improved cognitive function in individuals diagnosed with MCI. Comparatively, five studies showed no improvement in cognitive function. Results were reported with neurological tests and cognitive screeners such as the mini‐mental status exam. Cognitive improvements included memory, executive functioning, verbal recognition, attention, concentration, problem‐solving, cognitive processing speed, psychomotor speed, as well as subjective improvements. Significantly, the studies that showed no improvement did not describe any deterioration in cognitive functioning. Additionally, field experts predominately utilized mindfulness as part of a multi‐component treatment plan and reported subjective improvements in cognitive functioning. Conclusion Results of this analysis suggest that mindfulness‐based interventions do improve cognitive functioning as well as other symptoms influenced by MCI.