Visit Our Seniors
Posted on: April 12, 2017
You will likely see a diverse group of clients as a massage therapist. You may also have some senior care clients. Many seniors are unable to go to a spa to get a professional massage. That is why you more people are adding weekly massages to their list of senior care services. There are many ways that seniors can benefit from getting a manicure, pedicure, and professional massage.
Benefits of Massages for Senior Care Clients:
1. Reduce Stress
Life as a senior can be very stressful because of all of the changes that they experience. Chronic stress can cause pain, depression, high blood pressure and gastrointestinal problems. Fortunately, a massage therapist can help people alleviate their stress. Massage therapy helps alleviate stress by reducing cortisol levels. Cortisol is one of the hormones that stimulates the flight and fight response. A pedicure and manicure can also reduce stress.
2. Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation has a tendency to increase as one gets older. This is one of the reasons elderly people are more likely to develop illnesses like heart disease and arthritis. Massages have been shown to help reduce inflammation.
3. Improve Sleep
Seniors often have trouble sleeping. They experience a change in their circadian rhythm, which can make sleeping difficult. Because massages help promote relaxation, they can make it easier for one to sleep. That is one of the many reasons that regular massages should be a part of senior care services.
4. Improve Gait and Balance
Falling is one of the top concerns of older people. It is estimated that 66 percent of people who are over the age of 65 will have a fall at some point. Regular massages can improve gait and balance, which can decrease the risk of falls.