The Role of Massage Therapy in Dementia Care

Can Massage Therapy Help Ease the Symptoms of Dementia?

Dementia is a difficult condition to manage for both those affected and their loved ones. It is a high-stress condition that affects many families. Medical conditions that cause dementia are typically long-lasting, and the best treatment plans focus only on slowing the progress. However, it is possible to ease the discomfort of those suffering from dementia and to reduce the stress of those who are providing care.

Massage has long been part of a holistic approach to dementia care. While massage cannot cure or directly treat dementia, there are many positive benefits that can improve the patient's experience and even stimulate cognitive function through sensory activation.

Can massage therapy treat the symptoms of dementia? For symptoms like agitation, anxiety, pain, and sensitivity, the answer is often "yes." Let's talk about how massage can play a beneficial role in dementia care.


Soothing the Anxiety of Dementia

It is an unfortunate truth that many people suffering from dementia lose their inner peace. This is only natural. We rely on our cognitive clarity to feel safe and in control. Without it, anxiety, fear, and even paranoia are normal reactions. While loved ones can provide things like a familiar environment and stable routines, massage can address the stress caused by dementia more directly.

With massage, those with dementia are able to relax fully and the physical tension that builds up from constant uneasiness can be released through gentle soft tissue manipulation. This will help patients to feel more relaxed, at-ease, and comfortable during and after their massage. A 2020 study in the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine found that "massage therapy may be a useful nonpharmacological intervention in nursing profession to control agitation and stress in patients with dementia."


Easing Pain and Sensory Displeasure

Dementia is often paired with conditions that affect physical sensation. A condition might cause chronic pain or misfiring of neurons may cause sensory issues with the patient. Massage has been found to help treat both conditions by helping the body to feel comfort and relaxation.

Massage is already well known as a way to ease chronic and recurring pain, which can improve the quality of life for those with dementia. Medical studies have also found that gentle touch massage can help to reduce the symptoms of people suffering from sensory disorders that may be co-morbid with dementia-causing conditions. In select cases, massage can reduce the incidences of sensory overload and reduce overall sensitivity to triggering sensations.


Returning to Happier Times

If massage was a frequent part of the patient's earlier life, then getting a massage in a soothing environment can help those with dementia mentally return to a happier time. Remembering past happy experiences can help those with dementia feel more confident in themselves and enjoy their day more fully by immersing themselves into a happy and familiar mental state.

If there are certain elements of the massage experience such as a particular aroma or music track that would help the patient recall a past routine of massages and happiness, your massage therapist will be glad to help recreate the reminiscence during the massage.


A Timeless Relaxing Experience

A massage can also help those with dementia to spend a few hours not worrying about the things that are worrying during the day.

When getting a massage, it isn't necessary to remember the exact date or the last conversation you had. It doesn't matter what year it is or what comes next in the daily routine. The patient can simply relax and immerse into the enjoyable sensation of simply existing during a pleasant and relaxing experience.


Massage for Dementia Care Givers

Those who care for people with dementia can benefit just as much - sometimes more- from a soothing massage. Dementia care is a challenging pursuit whether you are a medical care giver or a dedicated family member. Caring for someone with dementia can cause an increase in long-term stress that must be released to continue providing the highest quality of care. Massage can help release that tension so you can fully relax and restore your energy.

The release of physical tension and mental tranquility provided by massage can help you feel refreshed and energized to give your best to the person you care for.


Massage Therapy for Dementia Care in Jacksonville

Massage has many potential benefits for those who suffer from dementia and the people who care for them. Always consult with a doctor before adding massage to a holistic care plan. With your doctor's approval, The massage professionals at The Wellness Hub will work with you to create a personalized massage experience that will improve the quality of life for a person with dementia and help dementia care givers to restore their energy and peace of mind.
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Contact us today to explore massage for dementia and care giver services in Jacksonville, Florida.

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We are pleased to serve the following Florida communities with massage therapy, chiropractic, organic skincare, acupuncture, red light therapy and more: Jacksonville, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin, Jacksonville Beach, Nocatee, St Johns, Ponte Vedra and beyond.

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