What Is A Geriatric Massage: Massage for Seniors

What is a geriatric massage? This question leads to a world of gentle care designed to improve the well-being of seniors.

Many seniors need help to feel better. Geriatric massage can comfort seniors. This article explains what geriatric massage is and how it helps.

Keep reading!

What Is Geriatric Massage?

Moving from the basics, let's explore geriatric massage. This special type of massage therapy focuses on older adults.

Unlike regular massages, it addresses specific needs that come with old age. Therapists use lighter touches and shorter sessions, usually lasting 15-30 minutes.

They know how to work around health conditions like arthritis or heart issues common in elderly clients.

The cost for this comforting service ranges from $50-$90 per hour.

Interestingly, a significant number of seniors are turning to such therapies as they may improve health outcomes for some seniors.

A study in 2018 showed that 29% of Americans over 65 had tried at least one form of integrative health approach, including massage therapy.

Geriatric massage offers more than relaxation; it may improve overall well-being for our elders by easing pain, enhancing mobility, and providing emotional comfort.

Benefits of Geriatric Massage

Geriatric massage helps older people feel better by easing their pain and making it easier for them to move around.

It also lifts their spirits and helps them relax, bringing a sense of calm and happiness into their lives.

Pain Relief and Improved Mobility

Massage therapy may help with chronic low-back pain in older adults. It uses light touch and gentle stretching to make muscles less stiff.

For people with Parkinson's disease, massage may reduce muscle stiffness.

A 2019 survey showed that out of 435 patients, 272 found massage most helpful.

This type of care may improve blood flow and joint movement. Older adults may move more easily and be less likely to fall.

These findings suggest better balance and sensory skills through massage for elders.

Enhanced Emotional Well-Being and Relaxation

Geriatric massage therapy brings the gift of personal touch that can deeply impact a senior's emotional well-being.

Study findings suggest this type of massage may help reduce stress, fear, and sadness.

For example, one study with 36 participants found that regular massage sessions significantly improved their emotional well-being.

With 36 older people taking part in research from Japan, just 15 minutes of hand rubbing made them more relaxed.

Their skin got warmer, a sign their bodies were releasing tension.

Another study in 2019, involving over 100 participants, found that these massages can be beneficial for those with memory issues like Alzheimer’s disease.

By potentially reducing challenging behaviors and promoting relaxation. It may reduce challenging behaviors and negative feelings.

Additionally, in 2020, researchers learned that hand rubs and caring touch lowered anxiety in over 250 nursing home residents.

These moments may boost oxytocin levels, which could help seniors feel less alone and more supported.

Now think about how this therapy can improve movement and ease pain for elders.

Considerations for Geriatric Massage

When providing massages to older individuals, certain considerations are crucial. Modifying techniques according to each person's health requirements and working with therapists experienced in senior care are vital.

Adjusting Techniques for Individual Health Needs

Geriatric massage therapists must adapt their methods to meet the unique health needs of elderly clients.

They consider each person's medical history, skin condition, and comfort levels.

Here are some ways they adjust their techniques:

• Therapists check a client's medical history to address conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, or cancer that require special care.

• The frail skin of older people means therapists use gentler strokes and apply more lotion or oil to avoid harming the skin.

• For those who can't lie down easily, therapists might provide massages in chairs or beds for comfort.

• Therapists might suggest side-lying positions with pillows for support if movement is challenging.

• They use soft blankets and warming pads to create a relaxing environment.

• Knowledge of medications is important since some can affect sensitivity to touch or pressure. Therapists adjust techniques accordingly.

• For clients with circulation issues, like vein inflammation or blood clots, therapists avoid massaging affected areas to prevent risks.

• Different massage types are used based on individual needs. For example, gentle lymph massage may help with swelling, while reflexology focuses on foot points for overall health benefits.

• Sessions include breaks as needed to ensure clients don’t feel overly tired or uncomfortable.

• Feedback during and after sessions helps therapists make adjustments for future appointments.

Importance of Working with Certified Therapists

Working with certified therapists is key for safe and effective geriatric massage. These experts have training to recognize issues like skin conditions or pressure sores.

They also know how to adjust their techniques for clients with specific health needs.

Organizations like the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and the Society for Geriatric Massage provide resources to find qualified professionals.

Certified therapists ensure that massages are both caring and appropriate.

In cases where clients have difficulty making decisions due to health reasons, therapists communicate with caregivers or legal representatives to provide safe and respectful care.

FAQs

What Exactly Is A Geriatric Massage?

Geriatric massage, often provided by a certified therapist, is a type of therapeutic touch specifically designed for elderly people.

It’s not as intense as deep tissue massage and requires special attention due to specific health conditions.

How Does Geriatric Massage Differ From Standard Massages?

Unlike standard massages, which apply more pressure, geriatric massage uses gentle techniques adapted to older clients' needs.

The therapist ensures the client’s comfort throughout the session.

Can You Tell Me Some Benefits Of Geriatric Massages For Seniors?

Absolutely! Benefits may include improved blood circulation, reduced chronic pain, and muscle tension relief.

It also provides relaxation techniques that may help alleviate anxiety and stress.

Is There Any Research On The Effectiveness Of This Approach To Therapy?

Yes! Studies in journals like the International Journal of Older People Nursing suggest that many older adults find comfort and symptom relief from regular sessions with licensed professionals.

Are There Any Alternative Therapies Similar To Geriatric Massage?

Alternative therapies, such as gentle lymphatic drainage massage and reflexology, are also used alongside medication for seniors managing chronic conditions or recovering from injuries.

Are All Therapists Qualified To Give These Treatments?

Not necessarily. Only therapists with certification in geriatrics can provide these specialized services.

As they require knowledge of aging-related health issues and experience working with older adults.

Conclusion

Geriatric massage offers comfort and care to older adults. It uses gentle techniques to address their unique health needs.

This therapy may bring positive changes, such as reducing pain and improving mood.

A trained therapist knows how to make the massage both safe and effective.

With geriatric massage, aging bodies get the support they need to feel better in mind and body.