https://matjournals.net/nursing/index.php/RRJGNHS/issue/feed 2026-05-19T05:23:54+00:00 Open Journal Systems https://matjournals.net/nursing/index.php/RRJGNHS/article/view/688 2026-05-19T05:23:54+00:00 Selvaraj. P kawinprasadh@gmail.com Kannan. K kawinprasadh@gmail.com

<p><strong><em>Introduction:</em></strong><em> Ageing is often associated with psychological challenges such as negative attitudes toward ageing and depression, particularly among institutionalised older adults. These challenges can negatively influence the overall well-being and quality of life of older adults. Non-drug-based approaches such as meditation are now widely considered effective in promoting better mental health outcomes. However, limited evidence is available on their effectiveness in improving both attitude toward ageing and depression among elderly individuals in residential care settings.</em></p> <p><strong><em>Methods:</em></strong><em> A quantitative evaluative approach was used, employing a one-group pre-test–post-test pre-experimental design. Thirty institutionalised older adults were recruited through convenience sampling from a selected old age home in Salem, Tamil Nadu. Baseline data were collected using a demographic proforma, an investigator-developed attitude toward ageing scale, and the standardised Geriatric Depression Scale. A structured meditation intervention was implemented over a period of four weeks. After completion of the program, participants were reassessed using the same instruments. The collected data were examined using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including the paired ‘t’ test.</em></p> <p><strong><em>Results:</em></strong><em> The results showed a clear improvement in attitude toward ageing, as the mean score rose from 20.16 to 27.9. None of the participants had a favourable attitude at baseline, whereas 30% demonstrated a favourable attitude after the intervention. Depression levels also declined markedly, with the mean score reducing from 15.13 to 8.66. Following the intervention, 67% of the participants were classified as free from depression. The calculated paired ‘t’ values indicated statistically significant differences (p &lt; 0.05).</em></p> <p><strong><em>Discussion:</em></strong><em> The study results indicate that meditation is an effective intervention in enhancing a positive attitude toward ageing and reducing depressive symptoms among institutionalised elderly. These findings are in line with earlier studies supporting meditation as a beneficial non-pharmacological approach in geriatric mental health care.</em></p>

2026-05-19T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2026 Research & Review: Journal of Geriatric Nursing and Health Sciences