Many people enjoy a good massage, whether it’s regularly scheduled or just a self-pampering treat that’s done occasionally. While you can experience gentle massages at home from a loved one or a home care provider, having a professional massage can be a real treat. If your loved one is interested, or if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for him, you might look into geriatric massage.
Geriatric massage is geared toward older individuals. It takes into account the age and overall health of your loved one. Many factors can determine if a massage is helpful or hurtful and using a regular massage therapist could cause injury or pain to your loved one. A geriatric massage therapist will consider your parent’s touch sensitivity, tolerance for heat (or cold), comfort, and overall experience.
Knowing that your massage therapist is skilled in geriatric massage may be the first step to having your loved one make an appointment to visit a trained geriatric masseuse.
Here are just a few of the benefits your loved one may experience from receiving a geriatric massage.
Improved Mental Health and Increase Blood Flow
It’s called a healing touch because it really can heal. Having someone’s physical hands on the body can reduce stress, eliminate anxiety, and calm nerves. At many massage therapist locations, the rooms are dimly lit with light music playing in the background. There may be gentle aromas in the air from candles or incense. All of these tell the mind to quiet itself and relax, which can bring about better mental health.
The muscles and organs need blood to flow to them regularly to be healthy and vibrant. A massage therapist’s hands can push along the blood flow, especially to the extremities like the calves, feet, and hands. With gentle pressure, the blood is encouraged to flow into these areas, providing oxygen.
Human Connection from Home Care Provider
Many elderly people who live alone talk about how it can be hard never having anyone physically touch them anymore. While they might receive a hand rub from a visiting home care provider or an occasional hug from you, a good back massage probably hasn’t happened in ages. Having a massage can make your elderly loved one feel connected again.
Better Sleep
A good massage can help a body relax and be able to sleep better at night. While it’s important for your loved one to follow other guidelines for a good night’s sleep (such as a consistent bedtime and lack of night-time caffeine), a late afternoon massage may make it easier for him to fall asleep at night.
Pain Management
One of the largest benefits of a massage is pain management. Because it reduces stress, increases blood flow, and promotes better sleep, chronic pain issues may also be reduced. For example, daily hand massages can help those with arthritis when done by someone who’s been trained in geriatric massage.
Whether it’s a simple shoulder rub from his senior care provider or a weekly visit to a professional geriatric masseuse, you might want to consider massage therapy for your aging loved one.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Union City CA, please contact the caring staff at Alondra Home Care today. Call (855)-767-1110.
Providing Exceptional Home Care Services in the Fremont CA and Alameda County area for over 5 years.
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