The Experience of Aging, Part V - Overcoming Isolation
It has been said that touch can reach through isolation and help alleviate feelings of loneliness and separation. Touch becomes especially important for those confined to health care institutions who may receive few visitors from the outside world. Though basic needs are met, these individuals often remain starved for the nurturing that is available through touch and skin-to-skin human contact.
Basic touch has become lost in the maze of modern medical technology, pills, and paperwork. Back rubs were once routinely administered by nurses as a non-invasive therapeutic tool to promote rest and relaxation. Touch techniques are particularly effective in providing comfort care and in enhancing quality of life for those who reside in a nursing home or extended care facility environments.
Touch and old-fashioned backrubs have been demonstrated to produce significant results in long term care residents. For example:
- Back rubs worked wonders for those confined to wheelchairs, for people in chronic pain and for residents exhibiting irritability or even anger.
- Hand massage or face stroking seemed to help those exhibiting anxiety, worry, sadness and fearfulness.
- Massaging the temples, scalp and forehead helped reduce headaches and tension, and shoulder and neck massage seemed useful for those exhibiting tiredness, irritability or mild upset.
Nursing manuals have long prescribed massage to prevent pressure sores, a chronic problem for the frail elders who spend most of their time in a bed or wheelchair. Even very gentle massage can improve circulation.
The use of touch to residents of health care facilities also has significant psychosocial benefits, including:
- one-on-one attention
- skin-to-skin contact
- tactile and sensory stimulation
- an opportunity for social interaction
- nurturing
- comfort
- reassurance
At least half the population in most skilled nursing facilities suffers from some form of dementia. Massage and touching provides therapeutic support by increasing body awareness and helping to ground those who are confused and disoriented. It can help focus attention, redirect energy, and promote calming.
http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/192