What Are the Benefits of Hospice Massage Therapy?

A hospice is designed to offer support and comfort to the dying. Massage therapy can be one aspect of this support and comfort.

General Massage Benefits

• The benefits of hospice massage therapy include the general benefits of massage available to everyone: relaxing tight muscles, reducing joint stiffness, reducing anxiety and improving circulation.

Preventing Pressure Sores

• People who are not mobile are susceptible to skin ulcerations called pressure (bed) sores from continual contact with a mattress. Massage can help stimulate circulation in susceptible areas and help prevent pressure sores.

Pain Management

• According to hospice massage therapist Dawn Nelson, massage helps some hospice patients manage stress and can lessen pain, sometimes reducing the need for pain medications.

Nurture

• Touch is often comforting and nurturing for people who are approaching death, especially if they have little social contact with others.

Expert Insight

• According to Nelson, most hospice patients reach a point where massage is no longer desired, tolerated or appropriate, yet maintaining contact is essential.