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Adaptations to mindfulness-based interventions for neurological impairment: the SMALL PROMPTS approach

  • Katherine A. Finlay
    ,
  • Jasmine H. Hearn
    ,
  • Jenna L. Gillett
    ,
  • Priyanjali Ratwatte
    ,
  • Joanne Morton-Bye
    ,
  • Angel Chater
  • University of Reading
    ,
  • Manchester Metropolitan University
    ,
  • The University of Buckingham
Research Output:
Contribution to journal
Article
 Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well

Abstract

Purpose/Objective: Standardized mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), used for the management of physical and psychological symptoms associated with neurological impairment/injury (NI), have been problematized as lacking accessibility due to their focus on sensory presence and mindful walking. Research is needed to generate formalized recommendations regarding how MBIs may be best adapted to enhance their suitability for people with NI. ResearchMethod/Design: A two-phase qualitative study was completed. First, semistructured interviews were undertaken with eight accredited mindfulness teachers with NI. Interviews reviewed the adaptations participants made in their personal and teaching practice, using thematic analysis, and generated recommendations for adaptations to MBIs specific to people with NI. Second, using the DELPHI method, the adapted practice recommendations were reviewed and revised via three rounds, following cognitive interviews with an expert panel (N = 5 trained mindfulness teachers with NI). Results: Ten core areas for adaptation are proposed and validated, acting as SMALL PROMPTS which can be used to adapt mindfulness-based teaching techniques to the specific requirements of people with NI: (a) Skin/bladder/bowel management; (b) mindful Movement; (c) Accessible training; (d) Language Leadership; (e) Permissive pRactice; (f) Optimizing timelines; (g) Management of posture; (h) inclusion of Pacing; (i) Teaching from experience; and (j) body Scanning. Conclusion/Implications:Mindfulness is a highly applicable approach for people with sensory loss, however significant, specific adaptations are required to improve inclusivity and accessibility. The SMALL PROMPTS adaptations increase the accessibility, applicability, and utility ofMBIs for populations living with NI, enhancing effectivemanagement of physical and psychological wellbeing, and optimizingMBI delivery.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output:
Contribution to journal
Article
 Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 391-404 (14 pages)

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Rehabilitation Psychology (Volume 67, Issue 3)

Publication milestones

  • Accepted/In press - 16/03/2022
  • Published - 07/07/2022

Publication status

Published - 07/07/2022

ISSN

0090-5550

Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/625503
  • Scopus: 85134035929

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