Massage Therapy for Care at Home

Massage therapy is especially beneficial for many of the aches and pains we experience as we get older.

Senior massage (also called geriatric massage) techniques aren’t dramatically different than massage for younger adults. However, the techniques used keep in mind that an aging body requires a little extra tenderness. Senior massage sessions range from 30 minutes to an hour. The client does not need to undress.

There is a lot of attention given to positioning the elderly client due to issues of mobility. The massage can be done on the therapists table, the client’s bed or a chair. For the client who is bound to a wheelchair, the massage can be administered right in the chair.

The benefits of geriatric massage are numerous. Massage promotes circulation, lessens muscular stiffness, provides relief from aches and pains, increases flexibility, improves sleep and even aides in the absorption of medication.

The benefits of enjoying human touch and company not only provides comfort, but it is also believed to alleviate depression in home-bound clients.

For pediatric and adult patients who live with chronic illness or are disabled, massage has many of the same benefits described above. A well-trained therapist will be able to assess each case and provide services that are right for each client, in each medical situation.

Author Zahara Davis is a caring Certified Massage Therapist. Ms. Davis’s practice is based in private homes, senior communities, and medical facilities in Bergen County NJ and Rockland County NY. Her experience spans 16 years of work in massage.