When I graduated from Massage School, I wrote a paper on Geriatric Massage. It had two premises--there is no such thing as "old age" and no such thing as "geriatric massage."For information on the first premise, I direct you to a wonderful book, Ageless Body; Timeless Mindby Deepak Chopra, Newsweek Magazine (Nov. 2003), discussing Lauren Hutton who said that 60 was the new 30!
How old are you? That is difficult to say. Your chronological age is related to how time has affected your organs and tissues, and how well you have taken care of your body. Your physiological age is how old you feel! Your attitude about this is the most important and can reverse the signs of aging.
The benefits of Massage are available across the ages from infants to the dying: *lowering blood pressure; * reducing anxiety; * increasing circulation; * preventing injury or illness; * relieving pain; * improving posture; * bringing better coordination and balance; * reversing aging symptoms; and fostering self-acceptance.
In these areas, the elderly benefit in the same way as anyone else. Here are some specific benefits for this population: * Relief from Constipation often cause by medications; * relief of soreness of the chest muscles from the use of a cane, walker or wheelchair; * increasing range of motion with passive exercises of arms and legs.
It may be more critical for the elderly to receive massage because of the way we are pushed aside by a culture that idolizes youth.
The second premise--that there is no such thing as Geriatric Massage--simply means that the therapist uses the same techniques but makes some necessary modifications or accommodations on an as-need basis, i.e., time and pressure, taking into account the person's stamina and health.
There are well over 200 kinds of massage, but there are only certain basics. In the 1800s, the term "Swedish Massage" was coined, but it really referred to a combination of many techniques brought over to Europe from the East. You would be looking for more gentle modalities, like Swedish or Reflexology (where the entire foot or hand massaged gives same benefits of having a fully body massage). Reiki is an energy modality system much like "laying on of hands." The energy travels to that part of the body in need of healing.
Most therapists that come to your home bring their own table and supplies, but the massage can be done in your recliner or in your own bed. ?Remember that you are in charge of your massage. Speak up and let the therapist know the amount of pressure you want, the temperature of the room, your body position, the length of time you prefer, and the type of massage.
The "secrets" of longevity are well known today--diet, exercise, environment--and most importantly...attitude. This puts you in charge of your aging process. Massage is no longer a luxury, but a part of necessary health care. Your body, like your car, needs periodic "tune ups" to keep it running well. For more information, you can contact AMTA, the American Massage Therapy Association, to locate one of their members near you.
by Marilyn Barbato, M.Ed.; LMT, Florida Licensed; Nationally Certified
