Massage therapy has benefits for people of any age. For seniors, however, it may be particularly useful. Many of the physical challenges that come with age are alleviated with massage, a noninvasive, non-chemical way to achieve relief. If you have a senior in your life, learn below how this service could help them.  

5 Ways Massage Therapy Benefits Older Adults

1. Minimize Pain

Seniors may experience pain from a variety of causes, including general body aches from stiff muscles. With targeted massage, therapists can reduce pain and stiffness to improve overall functions, especially in people with chronic, pain-causing conditions such as osteoarthritis.

2. Improve Sleep Patterns

Changing sleep patterns are a normal aspect of aging, but many older adults also have trouble getting quality sleep. These disturbances can stem from medication side effects, pain, and underlying medical conditions as well as waking up to go to the bathroom. Massages have been shown to improve both the duration and quality of sleep in older individuals.

3. Reduce Stress

Massage is a powerful stress reliever. Not only does it reduce physical tension in the muscles, but it also helps calm the mind. In fact, massage therapy has been shown to lower the body’s stress hormone, known as cortisol, by 30% on average. Because stress can contribute to sleep issues, anxiety, and irritability, it is important to find healthy ways to control it.

4. Facilitate Balance

Maintaining a strong core balance is critically important in older individuals, of whom are often more prone to fractures from falls. According to research, regular massage can help seniors achieve improved postural stability, which supports balance to help prevent tripping and falling.

5. Increase Range of Motion

Limited range of motion in major joints like the shoulders and hips can impede an individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks, including dressing and bathing themselves. Research indicates that soft-tissue massage can improve range of motion in joints for individuals over the age of 60. Since mobility is integral to many daily activities as well as hobbies, this improved range of motion can ultimately improve the quality of life for seniors.

Whether you have an elderly loved one who could benefit from massage therapy or you’re looking to explore the advantages yourself, Hands-On Health Massage & Physical Therapy in Guilford County, NC, is the top source for quality massage services. In addition to traditional massage, their practitioners offer specific services, such as postural realignment, which combines stretching and point therapy to reduce key areas of tension. Find out about more benefits of massage by visiting their website, or call (336)906-2040 to schedule an appointment.