Massage therapy for the elderly has various physical and mental benefits,
which result in the improvement of health and general well-being. The
techniques used for senior citizens differ greatly from those used with younger
individuals so massage therapists strive to understand those differences in
order to better treat their patients.
What can massage
therapy do for elderly health?
Clients of geriatric massage therapy report sleeping better, a reduction in
stress, relief from arthritis and chronic pain, increased recovery time from
surgeries, better circulation, lower blood pressure and relief from some
symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. To explain further, even a gentle massage has
a proven effect on blood circulation and the nervous system. These two body
systems are especially vulnerable to the effects of aging. Geriatric massage
stimulates these systems in a natural, pain-free way. Because of this, there
are none of the side effects that are present in many medications. This is
important for those who are being treated for Parkinson's disease, diabetes,
depression and many other conditions requiring regular medications. In many
cases, a regular massage enables the physician to reduce medications. Proper
geriatric massage also helps strengthen muscles weakened by disuse and helps
reduce pain and stiffness in the hip, knee and shoulder joints.
What type of
therapist is needed for this type of massage?
Licensed therapist can give massage therapy to elderly people. Therapists
administering massage for senior citizens are also trained to incorporate stretching
in the massage session. The specific stretching technique involves the
application of just enough pressure on the joints, soft tissue, and muscles to
make the massage safe for an older individual while still retaining its
efficacy. Touch helps us to organize information and understand the world
around us, and is essential to human happiness. Sometimes a reassuring touch is
all one needs to feel better.
What are some of the
pre-massage considerations?
Some limitations should be noted before massage therapy. Many of the
quantitative studies were limited by small sample sizes and lack of an adequate
comparison group. Environmental factors such as room temperature and frequency
of interruption in elder care settings are difficult to control and likely pose
a source of bias. Taking these factors into consideration, the balance of the
evidence is positive.
Human touch can have a significant impact on your mental and emotional
well-being, and can help promote a sense of belonging and friendship, which has
its own psychological benefits.
Massage Envy Clearwater
2516-B N. McMullen Booth Rd. MM# 20639 Clearwater, FL 33761
(727) 799-3689
http://www.businesslocallistings.com
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