The Power of Touch and What It Means for the Elderly

Touch is perhaps the most powerful sense of all. From the moment we are born, before our eyes are open, a gentle touch calms us and lets us know someone cares. In the beginning stages of life, a nurturing touch helps create a bond that shapes us for the rest of our lives. 

Even though research cannot prove exactly how touch positively affects us, it has shown that those who are physically touched on a regular basis experience higher levels of the hormone oxytocin. According to the National Institutes of Health, oxytocin lowers stress hormone levels and, by doing so, plays a part in lowering blood pressure, maintaining good moods and increasing pain tolerances.   No one can deny the warm feeling we experience when we are touched. Hugs, holding hands and other physical gestures of affection have the potential to ease our minds, make us feel less isolated, and reduce stress and anxiety. 

The need for constant touches may fade as we grow older but the feelings certain touches invoke do not. As we grow older, touch is a communication that transcends age and time. No matter how old we are, we all love to have our hand held, our backs rubbed, or the feel of a warm embrace. 

Seniors who live alone often do not experience the simple act of touch on a daily basis. The reasons vary:  spouses and close friends have passed away, families live in other states, or physical limitations may affect activity and contact with others. Remember this when spending time with the senior in your life. A simple, encouraging arm around a shoulder or a momentary grasp of a hand conveys a message of affection. Feelings of affection can make a big difference in the lives of seniors. 

The sense of touch is so powerful that some experts recommend elderly clients receive regular, professional massages. Massages in general are not meant to convey affection, but use the power of touch in another way. Gentle kneading of muscles helps release tension, can improve blood flow through the body and ease the pain of arthritis. While no affection is involved during a professional massage, oxytocin released in the body during the process produces the same comforting effects. In place of a full-body massage, foot and hand rubs can be just as emotionally and physically beneficial. 

The message of touch is simple. As humans, we are programmed to form emotional bonds that strengthen our relationships. Verbal communication facilitates those bonds. Physical communication confirms those bonds. Touching someone you love often conveys a message in a way words cannot. The next time you spend time with your elderly loved one, reach out and touch them. Hold their hand. Offer a warm embrace. Chances are you may see the loneliness and worry in their face replaced by a smile…and you may notice the same happens for you.   

Touch and the Aging

As we age our bodies change, and the type of massage therapy we are able to receive changes as well. Massage Therapy for seniors, also known as Geriatric Massage, involves gentle stroking, kneading, and the application of light pressure on specific points. The technique is adjusted for all different body types and ailments, ranging from the robust to frail senior. It is extremely valuable for easing the aches and pains associated with growing older.

• Everybody ages differently

(There are common 17 yr olds but no common 70yr olds)

• Lifestyle

• Exercise

• Diet

• Accidents

• Health Issues

• Medical care or lack thereof

Benefits Of Touch

Touch is an excellent form of nonverbal communication

• Decreases pain

• Increases Circulation

• Decreased blood pressure

• Mental Clarity, decreases sensory deprivation

• Increases reality orientation

• Stimulates minds

• Alertness

• Enhances feelings of well being

• Reduces depression and stress

• Decreases isolation and vulnerability

• Forms a sense of companionship

• Helps promote sleep

You will need to review the massage sequence details before we move forward. Read it thoroughly so you can become familiarized with the new language and concepts. It may not all make sense right not but it will come together easier as you move through the course and on to the Details and Demonstration.

I know you must be eager to watch the massage demonstration and we are ALMOST there... First you must learn what you will need when setting up your massage table! To continue, watch the video below! 

It is so important to give back to you!

As you begin your guided meditation, I ask you to call in why it is you decided to get into Geriatrics. As you know, there are not many massage therapists doing it and you are here for a very special reason. Think about that reason. Think about all the love you have to give and how your light is going to help your elderly clients. Not only in their present state but helping them transition to the next phase. This is deep work, not physical, but spiritual! You are a radiant being here to help nurture and guide our elders to a place of comfort and tranquility.

Thank you for being here and helping to complete the circle of nurture by giving back to those who once gave so much.

When you are ready, begin the meditation.