Tips for Elderly Massage

Massage therapists can choose to work in a variety of different settings with a variety of different clientele.  One area of massage that is gaining popularity is massage for elderly patients.  The benefits of massaging elderly patients are becoming more known and many people are taking advantage of these benefits.

When massage therapists are working with elderly patients, they must realize that they must take certain precautions to not hurt their patients.  Elderly clients have bodies that are more delicate.  Deep tissue and penetrating massage many not be appropriate for them because it can cause pain and bruising.  The stiffness and joint problems that can affect elderly clients must be taken into consideration.  Their skin tends to be very fragile so using massage oil or cream and using gentle massage techniques are crucial to avoid tearing or irritation.   Generally, the goal of this type of massage is to help the client relax, increase flexibility and ease joint pain.  Massage for elderly patients can be as simple as lightly brushing the skin or slow circular massage.  Because elderly clients tend to get cold more easily than younger clients, massage is usually done on a warmed massage table.  Elderly clients can also be more modest and may want to wear undergarments or clothes during their massage.

If you are interested in becoming a massage therapist, contact Space Coast Health Institute at 321-308-8000 to find out more about their program.