Refresh with Senior Massage in Residential Locations

Senior massage in residential locations can add so much to a senior’s day! You can say simply “I am getting a massage”. But you should know that you are getting much more! Gentle or firm massaging of the body has so many health benefits. Many indulge in massage for leisure. The controlled pressure on the skin and body can leave a person feeling almost euphoric.

You can call it ‘massage therapy’, if you are doing it on a regular basis. It’s well known, that anything to which a person commits to on a regular basis, gives double returns.

Always speak to your doctor before beginning any new therapy. It is especially important to speak to the doctor if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

 

The Amazing Benefits of Massage

Here are some of the benefits of massage:

• Studies have shown improvements in osteoarthritis pain through use of Swedish massage.
• Massage is said to reduce depression and anxiety.
• It can be a non-pharmacological treatment to complement medical issues.
• Most seniors want a repeat. It puts people in touch with what they want in life.
• It can increase feelings of wellness and as a result, increase appetite.
• Massage can help a senior learn to trust the massager/therapist and perhaps others.
• Regular massage can improve quality of life by reducing pain and stress.
• Manipulation of stiff joints can increase natural joint lubrication, a relief for arthritis.
• Massage involves handling the body and stimulating the mind at the same time. Great to prevent the affects of aging.

 

Types of Massage

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)  promotes the concept of massage for seniors. Here are a few of the many different types of massage  available. Each type is suitable for different issues.

Deep Tissue Massage

Good for people who take part in high energy activities, have an injury or have chronic pain. However, you need to have a high pain threshold as this can be quite an intense typ of massage.

 

Swedish Massage

Good for people with muscle tension, especially good for seniors or people who are sensitive. Swedish massage can be adjusted for intensity from light pressure to firm pressure.

 

Shiatsu

Good to relieve tension, pain and stress along the body’s median points. Can improve signs of depression and maybe headaches.

 

 

How to Choose a Massage Therapist

Firstly, look for a massage therapist who is licensed and insured.

Secondly, clarify that the massage therapist is trained in massage for seniors.

Thirdly, find out if the therapist gets on well with clients and is easy to communicate with.

Fourthly, find out if the therapist’s office is accessibility-friendly. Is it located on ground floor or is there an elevator? Does the massage therapist have an electric tale that can be lowered for senior patients? Some therapists do home visits. They either bring their own massage table/bed with them or adapt the massage for the bed-bound.

Finally, find out if there is any cover for the massage therapy. Medicare does not usually cover massage. Massage is considered alternative treatment. If therapy is medically needed, Medicare covers some physical and occupational therapy. A Tender Touch for All  founded in 2010 by Marc Silverstein, is a non-profit organization that offers massage to seniors, the disabled and people with chronic medical issues. The organization visits residential centers and also operate in treatment locations.

 

Senior massage in residential locations has so many physical and emotional benefits. Many people enjoy is so much, that it becomes the highlight of their week. Some people say that you can give yourself an effective massage in the comfort of your own surroundings. But it might be worth the extra outlay for that luxurious feeling of being pampered by having a senior massage in your residential location.

 

 

Photo by Camille Brodard on Unsplash