Among mind-body therapies, there is evidence for an association between pain reduction and mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation provides a potentially safe, effective, nonpharmacologic, noninvasive, simple method for pain relief and increased function that could be used for the frailest older adult. Additionally, mindfulness meditation addresses the multiple dimensions that are affected by chronic pain. The primary objective of this study is to determine the impact of an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program on physical function and pain severity in community dwelling older adults with chronic low back pain. Using a randomized controlled experimental design, 80 community dwelling older adults ≥ age 65 with chronic low back pain will receive either (1) the MBSR program, or (2) an 8-week education program. Prior to initiating the program, immediately after the last program session, and 6 months later, the following parameters will be assessed: (1) pain severity, (2) disability/physical function, (3) objectively measured physical performance, (4) psychosocial function (including mood, self-efficacy, self-rated health, coping, stress, quality of life (QOL), mindfulness and pain-related fear), (5) sleep, (6) pain-related appetite reduction and, (7) time and frequency of meditation. All measures are self-report except for the physical performance measure.