What is the difference in massage for seniors and massage for the average adult? At Zama, we receive this question all the time. Our baby boomer population is at an all time high and will continue to increase in coming years. While many boomers are already receiving massage as part of their wellness routine, many more will be accessing their first treatment. At Zama, we are well equipped and prepared to support the needs of our senior clients. Give us a call and we will educate and guide you in the right direction.
As we age, our bodies change. Muscles, tissues, skin and even our circulation respond differently to touch. It is important that your Massage Therapist understands the complexities of these changes, which requires both theoretical knowledge, experience, and technical skills that go beyond what is usually taught in massage schools.
Massage for seniors, also known as Geriatric massage, is a massage style that is modified for older adults whose conditions require technique that has been adjusted for older skin, joints, connective tissue, and age related ailments. For this reason, Zama staff are educated and experienced in providing therapeutic senior massage and techniques that support senior health.
Massage for the elderly or Geriatric massage involves gentle stroking, kneading, and the application of light pressure on specific points. The manipulation of specific points on the body has also been shown to promote the natural lubrication of joints, greatly assisting in the pain management of patients suffering from the stiffness of arthritis. It is important that correct precautions are taken, concerning the state of a client's skin that may have lost elasticity or may be more susceptible to bruising.
Many of the more mature clientele may be seeking services to alleviate problems due to Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, poor circulation, diabetes, as well as arthritis.
The physical and mental benefits of massage for seniors are vast. One powerful benefit is the release of hormones, including serotonin and endorphins, which helps reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Massage is a non invasive, enjoyable way to help alleviate the symptoms of age related diseases and improve quality of life. It is also it being a great alternative to less natural pharmaceutical treatments. Physically, many senior clients may experience a better range in motion, strengthened muscles, reduced tension and even better sleeping habits. A huge plus is that there are none of the bad side effects experienced with medication.
Swedish Massage, CranioSacral, and Reiki are great techniques for seniors and are all offered at Zama. Deep Tissue may be a good option for some, depending on the elasticity of the client's skin.
For further inquiries, call our concierge at 503-281-0278 or book a massage online 24/7