MiCBT Research (Selected Studies)

Investigator: Caroline Bertrand  

Supervisor: Professor Jeff Summers 

The aim of this study is to examine the changes in task-related cortical activity of healthy 60 to 85 year-old adults following a 10-week standardised mindfulness meditation program (in the Burmese Vipassana tradition) using Electroencephalography (EEG); Event Related Potentials (ERP) will also be examined. Training of the experimental group has been completed and the data are being analysed. The active control group has undertaken the Active Cognitive Enhancement program.

Investigator: Cathy Bushnell 

Supervisor: Professor Jeff Summers 

Co-supervisor: Dr Bruno Cayoun 

Institution: University of Tasmania, School of Psychology (MPsych research) 

There is evidence that mindfulness meditation enhances attention and memory but the effects of mindfulness meditation training on the cognitive functioning of older adults has not been adequately investigated. If it were found that simple programs, such as mindfulness meditation training, could enhance or preserve cognitive functioning in older adults, it may be possible to also delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline. The aim of the current study is to examine the effect of a 10-week standardised mindfulness meditation program (in the Burmese Vipassana tradition) on older adults’ performance on neuropsychological tests requiring attention (sustained, selective) and working memory skills. The active control group has undertaken the Active Cognitive Enhancement program. Training of the experimental group has been completed and the data are being analysed.