Massage for the elderly

The elderly population is increasing as baby-boomers "come of age". I am a baby-boomer whose elderly mother lives with her. That's two of us getting older together! What can keep us feeling good? Of course the answer includes numerous things, but one thing that's easy, affordable, and downright delightful is massage.

You don't need to take your elderly parent or patient to a beijing massage therapist to get this most valuable work. You can do it right in the privacy of your home, clinic, or nursing home...in fact, just about anywhere. We’re not talking about massage tables, or even those nice massage chairs you see at health fairs or in health food stores. We’re talking about stroking grandma’s hands and/or feet while she is comfortable in her recliner or bed. Massage stimulates the circulation, releases those neurotransmitters called “endorphins” into the brain—making us feel good—and relieves pain, such as that of arthritis.

Massage can help an elderly person to sleep better at night. You can, of course, give a nice back rub, and even stroke arms and legs, but oftentimes rubbing just the hands or feet will do the trick.

Another nice technique for elderly folks is a head massage. Just insert your fingertips gently into the hair and rub around in circles. You can also lightly circle the forehead, cheeks, chin --and don't forget those all-important ears. Mmmmm! Your grandma or grandpa will be most grateful.

Another wonderful benefit of massage is the closeness that is developed from this touch. Elderly people (as well as all of us) need to be touched and valued, and massage is one of the best ways to show them that they are still important, remembered, and cared for.

For more info: www.ncbtmb.org/. On this site for National Certification Board for Therapeutic Bodyworkers and Massage Therapists you can find a professional practitioner in your area if you desire professional massage--but I encourage you to try it on your own!