About Geriatric Massage
The term "geriatric" refers to physical health impairments due to aging. Geriatric massage requires modifications of standard techniques that are especially suitable to the physical conditions in the older population. Successful work with elderly clients requires the expertise of a specialized massage therapist to assess and address the client's health condition. Lack of training, inexperience or carelessness when dealing with an elderly client can have serious consequences.
Geriatric massage is not a pretentious term for massaging the elderly to make them feel a little better. Rather, it directs its efforts to specific conditions with the expectation of improving them. Qualified, quality and targeted geriatric massage:
While every client responds differently, following are conditions that are typically improved with a longer-term tailored massage program of two to five weekly half-hour sessions for two to three months.
Geriatric massage is not a pretentious term for massaging the elderly to make them feel a little better. Rather, it directs its efforts to specific conditions with the expectation of improving them. Qualified, quality and targeted geriatric massage:
- Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system so the body can relax
- Improves flexibility, range of motion, balance & coordination
- Maintains a healthy brain & immune system
- Stimulates blood circulation, lymphatic circulation and dopamine/serotonin production
- Provides pain relief and/or assistance with recuperation
- Improves musculoskeletal functions by ironing out “knots” in muscle fibers, dissolving adhesions
- Boosts body memory—especially in Alzheimer's patients—through repetitive touch, which helps trigger memories
- Helps reduce the onset of episodes for patients with dementia
- Faster healing including quicker recovery from surgery
- Improves sleep habits and quality of sleep
While every client responds differently, following are conditions that are typically improved with a longer-term tailored massage program of two to five weekly half-hour sessions for two to three months.
- Stroke symptoms
- Arthritic conditions
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- Gait impairments
- Parkinson's disease
A Note for Oncology Patients
The American Cancer Society recommends massage therapy to bring comfort and improve the quality of life for cancer patients, though not to specifically treat cancer. Cancer and cancer treatments affect the entire body, leaving the person in a fragile condition. There are important guidelines for working with cancer patients and therefore, it is vital for Jodi to be fully informed prior to providing any massage therapy.
Jodi Kaufman (413) 537-6558 [email protected]