Geriatric Massage for the Elderly: What are the Benefits?

The benefits of massage are well documented for folks of any age, but specialized massages for seniors can have unique health benefits. Geriatric massage specifically targets problem areas in an aging body to help address common issues that plague seniors — including poor blood circulation, pain from arthritis, and reduced mobility.

In this post, we’ll discuss what makes geriatric massage unique, explore the benefits of massage for elderly patients, and offer advice on how to find the right massage therapist for your loved one.

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What is a Geriatric Massage?

Geratric massage is a specialized form of senior massage therapy that generally utilizes lighter pressure and gentle stretching to ease muscle tension without damaging the skin.

However, senior massage therapy (and massage therapy in general) aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Professionals experienced with geriatric massage will consider overall fitness level and any additional age-related factors or health conditions to better serve the needs of the patient.

Benefits of Massage for the Elderly

Benefits of massage for the elderly include improved blood circulation, reduced arthritic pain, and increased balance and flexibility. Massage for seniors can be especially beneficial for those who are less physically active by helping to improve circulation and posture while reducing pain and inflammation.

These positive changes often have a cascading effect. Improved blood flow can lead to better cognitive function; while reduced pain often leads to elevated mood, improved sleep, and a reduction in stress.

A study conducted by the International Journal of Older People Nursing found that regular elderly massage therapy enhanced patient’s health and well-being after compiling the results of 14 unique studies focused on the impact of massage for older people living in care facilities. Another study, which saw patients with dementia receiving geriatric massage over the course of 6 weeks saw a notable reduction in stress and aggressive behavior.

Is Senior Massage Safe?

With proper modifications, massages for seniors are safe and have numerous health benefits.

An experienced massage therapist will review your senior’s overall health, their current activity level, and any existing health conditions. During this review, they should ask questions about your senior’s medications, areas on the body that are sensitive to heat or pressure, and any injuries that may require special care.

In-Home Geriatric Massage

If possible, consider in-home geriatric massage, especially if your senior has issues with mobility or suffers from dementia. Elderly massage should be all about creating a relaxing environment and reducing stress — being able to avoid wasting the energy required to travel to a massage appointment every week is a great first step.

If you believe your senior may benefit from in-home geriatric massage, reach out to their primary care physician or care facility to see if they have a preferred massage therapist who specializes in massage for older people.

If all else fails, a simple internet search for therapists who specialize in elderly massage should help you find someone in your area who can accommodate your needs. Most states require massage therapists to be licensed, so if you’re finding a massage therapist yourself rather than getting a referral, be sure to confirm their credentials before your loved one’s first session.

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.