What research has been done on geriatric massage?
Geriatric massage is a form of massage therapy that is specifically designed to meet the needs of older adults. Research on geriatric massage has shown that it can have a number of benefits, including:
* Reduced pain: Geriatric massage can help to reduce pain from a variety of sources, including arthritis, back pain, and headaches.
* Improved mobility: Geriatric massage can help to improve mobility by reducing muscle stiffness and pain.
* Reduced stress and anxiety: Geriatric massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which can improve overall well-being.
* Improved sleep: Geriatric massage can help to improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.
* Enhanced immune function: Geriatric massage can help to enhance immune function, which can help to reduce the risk of illness.
* Improved mood: Geriatric massage can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
* Increased social interaction: Geriatric massage can help to increase social interaction and reduce feelings of isolation.
* Enhanced quality of life: Geriatric massage can help to improve overall quality of life by reducing pain, improving mobility, and reducing stress.
In addition to these benefits, geriatric massage is also safe and well-tolerated by most older adults. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting geriatric massage, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Some specific studies on geriatric massage include:
* A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that geriatric massage was effective in reducing pain and improving function in older adults with osteoarthritis.
* A study published in the journal Pain found that geriatric massage was effective in reducing pain and improving sleep quality in older adults with chronic pain.
* A study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine found that geriatric massage was effective in reducing stress and anxiety levels in older adults.
* A study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that geriatric massage was effective in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression in older adults.
These studies provide evidence that geriatric massage can be a beneficial complementary therapy for older adults. However, more research is needed to confirm the long-term effects of geriatric massage and to identify the specific mechanisms by which it works.