Healthy Aging as Black Adults, In It Together: a Comparative Effectiveness Study of Chronic Pain and Cognitive Decline

MBCT+w uses a multimodal approach to introduce and reinforce new skills, including didactics, in-session activities, discussions and weekly practice assignments (homework). The MBCT+w sessions teach skills and strategies to manage early cognitive concerns and chronic pain. The format is an 8-week program with 90-minute weekly meetings that will focus on relaxation response strategies, cognitive behavioral training, positive psychology and mind-body interactions. MBCT+w uses a wrist-worn digital monitoring device (ActiGraph) for recording of physical activity.

ALED is a behavior change program. ALED offers different options to traditional exercise program to help participants overcome barriers to physical activity and increase their physical activity. The format is a 12-week program with 60-minute sessions that include a short lecture and group discussions to help participants set goals, decrease barriers to exercise, and find an activity they enjoy. The ALED program is conducted in the same format as MBCT+w, but participants are not taught the mind-body, walking or cognitive-behavioral skills. ALED will also use a wrist-worn digital monitoring device (ActiGraph) for recording of physical activity.