Massage can be relaxing and rejuvenating for people of all ages and can help you stay healthy as you grow older. However, mobility challenges, fragile skin, and chronic pain can sometimes make massages uncomfortable or even painful.
Age-related limitations don't need to stop you or your loved one from enjoying a massage. Geriatric massage therapists adjust positioning, pressure, and session length to ensure the massage is comfortable, not painful.
- How Geriatric Massage Differs from Other Massages
- Who Can Benefit from Geriatric Massage?
- How Geriatric Massage Works
- How to Get a Geriatric Massage
- Senior Massage Safety Tips and Considerations
- FAQs about Geriatric Massage
How Geriatric Massage Differs from Other Massages
Conventional massage therapy typically involves deep pressure. Geriatric massages prioritize comfort and safety. The massage therapist considers their client’s mobility, health conditions, and comfort level, adjusting techniques accordingly.
There are several distinctions between geriatric massages and other types of massages:
- Gentle Techniques: Light, slow strokes are soothing and won’t irritate fragile skin.
- Shorter Sessions: A geriatric massage typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes instead of 60 to 90 minutes. Longer massages may put too much strain on an older body.
- Less Pressure: The therapist will apply lighter pressure, particularly on bony areas or thin skin.
- More Customization: The therapist ensures each massage aligns with your or your loved one's health needs, including stiff joints, poor circulation, osteoporosis, and chronic pain. They'll position you or your loved one comfortably. This could include providing cushioning pads or bolsters, or a recliner, if you have trouble breathing when lying flat.
- Greater Engagement: Geriatric massage often involves much more communication between the client and the therapist. The therapist wants you or your loved one to speak up if anything feels uncomfortable.
Who Can Benefit from Geriatric Massage?
Geriatric massage helps many seniors manage pain and stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce stress. It’s particularly beneficial for older adults dealing with arthritis or other chronic conditions or those with limited mobility, such as someone recovering from hip or knee surgery.
If you or your loved one has a medical condition—particularly osteoporosis, open wounds, or blood clots—consult your healthcare provider before scheduling a session. You may still be able to get a massage if you take certain precautions on the advice of your doctor.
How Geriatric Massage Works
Geriatric massage adapts standard massage techniques to suit an older person’s comfort, mobility, and specific health needs. Therapists adapt the session based on how the person is feeling that day and what’s most comfortable for them.
What to Expect at a First Session
Before your first geriatric massage, you'll complete a health questionnaire, and the therapist may ask for more details. They'll ask about areas of the body to avoid and what positions are most comfortable. You don’t have to undress; you can wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
When you're ready, you'll lie on a massage table or sit in a special chair that helps the masseuse easily reach different muscle areas. The therapist can make adjustments, such as moving the table down so you don't need to lift yourself up to get on or placing pillows to support neck, back, hip, or knee issues.
The massage therapist will work slowly and gently, using lotion or oil to prevent friction. Techniques include gentle kneading to warm the muscles, light stretching to relieve stiffness, and slow circular motions to boost circulation. The therapist will check in to see how you're doing and encourage you to speak up if you're not enjoying the experience.
Physical and Emotional Benefits
You or your loved one can benefit physically and emotionally from geriatric massage. It improves circulation, reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and enhances flexibility.
Research shows that geriatric massage reduces pain, improves mobility, and may strengthen immune function. It can also help ease constipation and chemotherapy-related nerve pain. A simple hand massage can promote relaxation in older adults, and foot massages can improve mobility and balance, reducing the fear of movement after surgery.
Geriatric massage lowers stress and feelings of isolation, helping many seniors feel calmer and more connected. It complements other gentle movement practices, such as bed exercises, mobility exercises, water aerobics, and gentle yoga stretches.
How to Get a Geriatric Massage
Look for a licensed massage therapist experienced with older adults. Ask your doctor or physical therapist for a referral. You may get your massage in the therapist’s office or at a clinic, or you may have someone come to your home or living community.
Expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour, with shorter sessions (20 to 45 minutes) ranging from $40 to $75. Massage therapy isn't covered by traditional Medicare or most private insurance, although some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited coverage with a copay. Veterans may be covered under the VA’s Whole Health program.
Senior Massage Safety Tips and Considerations
Trained geriatric massage therapists know how to adapt sessions for safety and will ask about your or your loved one’s unique needs. Before scheduling your first massage, talk with your doctor or physical therapist, especially if you have significant health conditions or mobility issues. During the massage, let the therapist know if you feel any pain, dizziness, or nausea.
If you schedule additional massage sessions, keep your therapist updated on any medications, medical conditions, or recent surgeries. You’ll cover this during your first session, but health conditions can change. Blood thinners and certain pain medications increase the risk of bruising or bleeding, so your massage therapist needs to know if you're taking these.
Frequently Asked Questions about Geriatric Massage
How often should seniors get a massage?
It depends on your needs and your budget, but anywhere from weekly to monthly. Your massage therapist can help you create a schedule.
Can 80-year-olds get massages?
Yes, if they're healthy. Many people in their 80s and older enjoy gentle massages. However, it’s even more important to consult a doctor before starting massage therapy and tell the therapist about any health changes.
What techniques should be avoided in geriatric massages?
It varies by individual, but when working with older clients, massage therapists avoid applying too much pressure around fragile bones, bony areas, and delicate skin. Instead, they use gentle strokes and regularly check in with their clients.
What should you wear during a massage?
It’s all about comfort. Soft, loose-fitting clothing is recommended. If you prefer to be undressed, the therapist uses professional draping to maintain privacy.
Is massage safe for people with limited mobility?
Yes. A geriatric massage therapist can adapt their techniques to meet mobility challenges. Most offer chair-based sessions or provide extra support with pillows or bolsters.
BrightStar Care® Helps Support Holistic Health for Seniors
Geriatric massage provides a gentle way to ease discomfort, support mobility, and help older adults feel more relaxed and connected. For many seniors, it becomes a regular part of managing their health. However, sometimes arranging for massages, getting to appointments, and communicating medical needs can be challenging. A trusted caregiver can help with all these practical details.
BrightStar Care caregivers understand what you or your loved one needs and can help you connect with in-home therapies and personal care services. If you're looking for nurse-led home care services , our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online, or call (866) 618-7827 to learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard®.