The Importance of Hand Massage in a Care Home
The Importance of Hand Massage in a Care Home
As we get older, it is natural for our ability to move and do simple tasks to become limited. This is especially true for the elderly people who are living in care homes. That is why it is essential to pay attention to their physical health and wellbeing. One way to help them maintain their physical and emotional health is by giving them hand massages. If you want to know more about the benefits of hand massages in care homes, then this blog post is for you.
1. Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Hand massages are an excellent way of reducing anxiety and depression in elderly people. A gentle massage on the pocket of muscles on the thumb side of the wrist helps to release a hormone that is essential in reducing anxiety and depression. It provides a calming effect and helps us to feel relaxed and happy.
2. Aids in Better Sleep
Many elderly people find it hard to sleep at night. Hand massages can be very helpful in this case. A soothing hand massage before bedtime helps to stimulate the brain to release endorphins, which are hormones that help in promoting a good nights sleep. It is essential for seniors to have a good nights sleep to keep them refreshed and energised.
3. Improves Blood Circulation
Poor blood circulation is a common problem for many elderly people. Hand massages can help in improving blood circulation. A gentle massage on the fingers, palms and wrists helps to stimulate blood flow, which helps to reduce stiffness in the joints and muscle aches. It also aids in better oxygen flow, which helps to reduce swelling in the hands and feet.
4. Provides a Sense of Bonding
Massage therapy helps to create a sense of bonding between the elderly person and the caregiver. It helps to improve the relationship between them, which is essential for their overall wellbeing. Hand massages also provide opportunities for the caregiver to check on the senior’s hands and detect any early signs of joint problems or arthritis.
5. Alleviates Pain and Discomfort
Many elderly people suffer from inflammation and pain in the hands due to arthritis or other joint problems. Hand massages can be very helpful in alleviating this pain and discomfort. A gentle massage on the hands helps to reduce inflammation and improves mobility, which helps the senior to perform daily tasks more easily.
Hand massages are a simple yet powerful way to help improve the quality of life for seniors living in care homes. It provides a range of benefits, from reducing anxiety and depression to improving sleep and blood circulation. As caregivers, we must not underestimate the power of touch and take the time to provide our elderly loved ones with these simple pleasures. By doing so, we would be helping them in a small yet significant way.