Senior Health
Senior Health
Clinical Study: Therapeutic Massage for Older Adults: Research Questions.
Research:
With the growing recognition of the importance of holistic care approaches, therapeutic massage is gaining renewed appreciation. Massage supports health and healing by promoting relaxation and is considered a safe, caring, and cost-effective intervention.
Research on therapeutic massage for older adults has examined theoretical frameworks, study designs, variables, participants, methods, measurement instruments, analyses, and results. For future studies, it is crucial that caregivers use clear definitions and standardized procedures—such as the type of massage, the body regions treated, and the duration of treatment. In addition, variables that have a significant impact on health, such as agitation, immune status, or pain, should be examined.
Results:
A total of nine clinical studies were reviewed, including six placebo-controlled studies. Six of these studies demonstrated significant effects of therapeutic massage, including:
- Reduction in systolic blood pressure and heart rate
- Decrease in heart rate
- Increase in skin temperature (especially in men)
- More relaxation and well-being
Read the full study
Weinrich SP, Haddock S, Robinson K. “Therapeutic massage in older adults: research issues.” British Journal of Nursing. 8(3): 159–64, Feb. 11–24, 1999.
