As a health care provider, I recognize touch as an incredibly powerful healing tool especially in aging populations. Scientific studies have shown massage to benefit Alzheimer’s, dementia, high blood pressure, stress, arthritis, chronic pain, circulation issues, and a host of other conditions. Geriatric massage with a qualified therapist can benefit a senior’s mental and emotional well-being.
The mind-body benefits of massage were evident at the Beechwood at the latest Wallis for Wellness WOW Factor event, with many smiling residents experiencing first-hand the advantages of complimentary medicine. When I went to the Beechwood residence by Revera Living as part of the Wallis for Wellness team, I felt inspired by a dedicated group of practitioners happily helping some grateful seniors feel more comfortable.
Another successful WOW Factor event
For our latest WOW Factor event, the team provided geriatric massage, reflexology treatments, lymph drainage, nutrition/health tips as well as a generous supply of samples and gifts to the residents of the Beechwood. Eager participants waited excitedly for their complimentary treatment and I had the chance to talk with these vivacious seniors while providing health tips and healing herbal teas from our generous sponsor Traditional Medicinals.
Complimentary care for common concerns
Many of the Beechwood residents I spoke to were eager to learn about their health. Through our conversations I learned more about their health concerns; many wanted a more active role in their healthcare. For the overwhelming majority of Beechwood residents, insomnia was endemic. Sleep issues affect approximately 50% of senior patients and is a multifaceted and multifactorial problem. Along with calming herbal teas such as chamomile and lavender, geriatric massage has been shown to reduce stress than can contribute to insomnia in seniors. However, it is important to keep in mind that each person is individual and the individual causative factors should be investigated by a qualified health care professional.
It is never too early or too late to take your health into your own hands. For seniors, geriatric massage and other complimentary therapies may help reduce drug burden and elevate quality of life. We hope that the WOW Factor event at the Beechwood showed that advocating for your own health, or the health of your beloved aging relatives, it crucial for a long and happy life.