Massages can definitely be a great way to relax, but they also offer specific benefits that can promote senior health. Here’s a list of positive effects massage therapy may have for your senior loved one.
Reduced Pain
One of the most noticeable benefits of massage therapy is a decrease in muscle pain. When the right pressure points are stimulated, stiffness associated with arthritis can diminish and a greater range of motion may be achieved. Seniors with osteoporosis also report less discomfort after receiving massages.
Home caregivers can help seniors with daily tasks that are challenging because of pain associated with common age-related conditions such as arthritis. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care service. Families trust Lifestar Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
Increased Circulation
Physical activity can lessen with age, and when seniors lower their fitness levels, their lymphatic systems grow stagnant. Lymph is a colorless fluid containing white blood cells that, if lethargic, can lead to increased susceptibility to disease and sickness. A massage can jump-start lymph movement and assist in eliminating toxins.
Elevated Mood
Massage therapy releases mood-heightening endorphins, which is especially beneficial for seniors who may feel isolated or lack personal contact. Whether in a nursing facility or at home, aging can lower personal interaction and increase feelings of stress, but massage can be a way to break down these barriers.
Fewer Alzheimer’s Symptoms
The sensation of touch is something seniors with Alzheimer’s often remember. Incorporating massage therapy in your loved one’s ongoing treatment plan can calm and comfort him or her, leading to fewer aggressive outbursts and a reduction in overall symptoms.
Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Oklahoma City Lifestar Home Care provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our caregivers help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.
Heightened Respiratory Health
Many muscles in the front and back of the upper body are respiratory muscles that, when tightened, can restrict normal breathing patterns. Working with the muscles throughout the torso can relax the region around the chest cavity, allowing freer breathing, increased oxygen intake, and easier carbon dioxide elimination.
Getting massages on a regular basis can boost your loved one’s quality of life and increase his or her ability to age in place. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Lifestar Home Care, a leading provider of home care Oklahoma City families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today.