Massage therapy is the practice of kneading, rubbing and manipulating the muscle tissues of the body to promote relaxation and well-being. Massage can be performed on most anyone, ranging from infants up to the elderly. The elderly can especially benefit from gentle massage modalities, such as Swedish massage treatments.
Circulation
One potential benefit of massage on the elderly is an improvement in circulation. As the muscle tissues are manipulated during a massage, muscles relax and blood flow becomes easier. Better circulation increases the amount of oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the body while more effectively removing toxins out of the cells of the body. Better circulation also reduces the pressure needed to push the blood through the tight muscles, which may help lower blood pressure and reduce stress on the heart.
Pain Relief
Massage may also benefit the elderly by reducing pain. Whether due to the natural aging process or disease, pain can be a constant struggle for the elderly. Surveys by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) have shown that massage can temporarily, or in some cases permanently, reduce pain. Of those surveyed by the AMTA, 74 percent of those who used massage for pain relief said their pain was temporarily reduced due to the massage treatment. Another 14 percent said the massage permanently eliminated their pain. Massage relieves pain by temporarily blocking pain nerve signals and encouraging the release of the body's natural pain killers, called endorphins.
Relaxation
Massage may also help produce both physical and mental relaxation in the elderly. As the muscles are massaged, muscle fibers loosen and tension is reduced, resulting in relaxed muscles. According to the Mayo Clinic, massage treatments may also help relax the mind, reducing the effects of depression and anxiety.
Emotional Well-Being
Massage therapy may also promote emotional health in the elderly. According to research done by geriatric psychiatrist Max Stek, M.D., PhD and published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, loneliness is a common struggle for many elderly people, which leads to depression and may even hasten death. Massage therapy combats loneliness by providing healthy physical touch, which can help remove feelings of isolation and loneliness.
