What Is Geriatric Massage?

Geriatric massage is suitable for older individuals experiencing pain and looking for alternative ways to provide them with much-needed relief. Massage therapists trained in this type of massage technique will consider the client’s age, any medication they may be on, their current health condition, and their expectations for the session.

Geriatric massage takes into account the needs of the individual undergoing the massage, and the therapist trained in geriatric massage takes time before starting the first session to discuss any concerns or areas of the body that need particular care.

From this information, a massage therapist can accurately assess your body, your needs, and how to treat specific issues. Geriatric massage is not a one-size-fits-all experience applied to every client; it’s precisely tailored for you and your particular needs!

Geriatric massage sessions always take place in a quiet, private environment. You are left to undress privately or, if you choose, accompanied by a family member, friend, or caregiver. The therapist returns only when you are lying on the massage table and fully covered with a sheet. Only the areas being worked on are uncovered during the session.

Lotions and oils are used during geriatric massage to minimize friction between your skin and the hands of the therapist. As well as increasing the effectiveness of their techniques, this also protects your skin and aids in improving its look and feel.

During the session, the therapist will continue to ensure that their touch is not too heavy but is still being felt adequately in the areas they’re working on. You can stop the therapist at any time to ask for adjustments if you are uncomfortable or experiencing any pain. However, both of these are highly unlikely; more likely is the chance of your becoming extremely relaxed and overcome with a sense of well-being!

What Are the Benefits of Geriatric Massage?

You shouldn’t have to put off massage therapy in your old age because you feel it is a luxury. On the contrary, massage can be essential to improving your health, both physically and mentally.

Foremost, geriatric massage supports pain relief. Precise techniques will aid in releasing the tension, ensuring that the source of your pain is located. Additionally, massage is favorable in boosting blood circulation. We generally tend to move around less with age, and as a result, our circulation deteriorates. This leads to stiff muscles, sore joints, and daily pain that can all easily be resolved by your therapist.

One of the significant benefits that massage, in general, has to offer is that it helps reduce stress levels. Even older individuals suffer from stress, which can result in a tense body, further exacerbating any physical conditions they may already have. So you can look forward to a relaxing appointment, knowing that you will feel more at ease when walking out.

Aging brings a whole new set of annoying problems, one being poor sleep. Massage therapy addresses this because serotonin is released during your session, leading to higher melatonin levels. This specific hormone wanes over time, but massage increases it, ensuring you get a good night’s rest more often.

Regular physical contact with a professional is an unintentional benefit that geriatric massage can provide. As you grow older, your social circle may dwindle, and you may lack connection. Massage can help you feel less alone and makes therapy feel more meaningful.