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Active seniors

We’re living longer, and Canada’s population over 65 (and over 85 and beyond), has grown rapidly over the past several decades. There are a lot of great things that come with aging including valuable life experience, more time available with friends and family, and based on the latest research, an overall more positive outlook on life. However, there is also an increased risk of chronic pain, various types of musculoskeletal pain and an increased prevalence of certain conditions.

This blog goes over 4 ways massage therapy can help make seniors more comfortable and independent as they age.

1. Alzheimer’s Disease. Alzheimer’s disease is most common in people over 65, and is the most common type of dementia, associated with decreased language ability, loss of memory, and changes in personality and emotional stability. Massage, especially hand massage, has been found to reduce agitated behaviours and symptoms of depression. Massage therapy can also help people with Alzheimer’s disease decrease feelings of isolation and reduce stress, which can ultimately also increase behaviours associated with agitation.
2. Chronic pain. About 25% of seniors experience chronic pain, which is more than younger populations experience. Some common sites of chronic pain among seniors include low-back pain, hip pain and knee pain. Massage therapy has been found to help people with chronic back pain reduce pain and reduce reported disability. Massage therapy can also, especially when combined with an exercise program, help people with hip pain or knee pain find some relief.
3. Arthritis. Arthritis is more common in people over 65 and is a common contributor to disability and can limit people from completing their regular activities. Massage therapy has been shown to decrease pain and stiffness and improve range of motion in people with osteoarthritis impacting various joints. Especially when combined with exercises recommended by an RMT, massage therapy can also help people with arthritis better complete their regular activities and improve their quality of life.
4. Stroke. The prevalence of stroke increases with age, and stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and reduced quality of life. Seniors who have had strokes are at higher risk of mortality, poorer functional outcomes, prolonged length of hospital stay, and institutionalization. Massage therapy can help people who have had a stroke increase function and mobility and decrease risk of falls. It can also help people relieve post-stroke chronic pain as well as improve peoples’ overall sense of wellbeing after a stroke.

With a rapidly aging population, it’s more important than ever that people have access to healthcare that will help them stay independent and keep doing the activities they love. More seniors than ever are staying in the community for longer and looking for ways to stay active. Massage therapy is a great option for seniors to help reduce their musculoskeletal pain and relieve many symptoms of other conditions that become more prevalent with age.

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Tags: stroke, arthritis, alzheimers, chronic pain, seniors