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Pilot RCT of MBCT vs Health Enhancement Program for the Chronic Pain-Early Cognitive Decline Co-Morbidity Among Older Black Adults

Award Number: R21AG104008
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 09/15/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 08/31/2028

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Pilot RCT of MBCT vs Health Enhancement Program for the Chronic Pain-Early Cognitive Decline Co-Morbidity Among Older Black Adults - PROJECT SUMMARY This proposal addresses the highly prevalent but understudied co-morbidity of chronic pain (CP) and early cognitive decline (ECD) among older Black adults, a population already at high risk for worsened physical, emotional, and cognitive function and accelerated progression to Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). Approximately 25% of adults over age 60 experience ECD and those with CP are twice as likely to also have ECD. This bi-directional relationship forms a disability spiral of declining health and function. Current treatments inadequately address physical and emotional functioning in this comorbidity, particularly in older Black communities who are most at risk for this co- morbiditiy. To fill this gap, we adapted mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for this co-morbidity and piloted the adapted intervention ( Feeling of Being ) with peer instructors already based in the community to lower barriers related to cost, travel, relevance, and acceptability. This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) will compare Feeling of Being to the Health Enhancement Program (HEP), a credible, time-matched active control. We will assess feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of intervention delivery, and obtain preliminary efficacy evidence on physical function (primary outcome), as well as pain, emotional well-being, and objective/subjective cognitive function. Mechanistic targets such as mindfulness and adaptive coping will be evaluated for correlation with health outcomes. The project aligns with National Institute of Aging priorities to advance understanding and treatment of aging-related conditions among at-risk communities. Successful completion of this pilot RCT will provide a blueprint for a fully powered efficacy trial, with significant implications for delivering accessible interventions tailored to improving the health and quality of life of communities, particularly those at risk for the CP-ECD comorbidity and progression to ADRD.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $247,500 )
2026	2026	THE GENERAL HOSPITAL CORPORATION	55 FRUIT ST	BOSTON	MA	02114	SUFFOLK	USA	Aging Research	000	1	9/8/2026	NEW	$247,500
														Subtotal = $247,500

Grand Total All Awards = $247,500

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Pilot RCT of MBCT vs Health Enhancement Program for the Chronic Pain-Early Cognitive Decline Co-Morbidity Among Older Black Adults

Award Number: R21AG104008

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 09/15/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 08/31/2028

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