An 8-Week Stress Management Program for Older Women: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Stress can significantly impair the health of older people, who often face a combination of stressors unique to this age group. This study is a stress management and lifestyle change intervention for women 60 years and older. The participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The 8-week intervention plan included training in progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, abdominal breathing training using biofeedback, physical activity and nutrition counseling, and cognitive restructuring training. Self-report validated measures were used to evaluate perceived stress, depression, health locus of control, and well-being. The intervention group experienced significantly greater reduction in perceived stress (p < 0.001, r = 0.8) and physical and psychological stress symptoms (p < 0.001, r = 0.7) compared to the control group. The intervention also significantly reduced depressive symptoms and improved quality of life (p < 0.001, r = 0.7 for both variables). The findings of this study confirm the positive effects of multimodal stress management interventions on the mental and physical health of older women. Wellbeing interventions for the elderly should include stress management modules.