Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and worsens over the passage of time. The cause of Alzheimer’s disease is poorly understood, which is why there is no authentic cause identified yet. However, 70% of the risk is believed to be genetic. Some other risks that can lead to Alzheimer’s at some stage of life include the history of head injuries, depression or hypertension. As the tangles in the brain increase, the disease processes and gets severe. A probable diagnosis of the disease is based on the history of the illness and cognitive testing with lots of blood tests and medical imaging to rule out other possible causes.
How is massage helpful for Alzheimer Patients?
Alzheimer patients need care and love from their friends and family. It is the only thing that can bring them to life. Affection is a key factor in treating any kind of illness; physical, mental or emotional. However, massages can be really helpful as well. A friendly touch is extremely soothing for Alzheimer patients. Therapeutic massages are a natural way to calm agitated Alzheimer patients. Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia, and for all dementia patients, touch has turned out to be comforting and encouraging. Under a study, an Alzheimer patient was inquired about how he feels about being touched? He said that they need to be touched gently, not only when they are babies, but for their whole life. You could always consider taking your partner or patient to a https://www.soheavenlymassage.co.uk/ clinic. This way you would be able to ensure the massage is done properly and they leave feeling re-energized.
Here are some amazing benefits of medical therapeutic massage for Alzheimer patients.
The quality of life – Massages enhance the quality of life for Alzheimer patients. It helps them to relax and sleep better. Massage gives psychosocial benefits to the patient. However, when you touch a patient and massage with lotions, it soothes the skin and increases blood circulation. This way, the medicines effect better and nerves remain relaxed.
Memory loss – As the blood circulation improves, the process of memory loss slows down. When an Alzheimer’s patient gets regular massages, positive progress can be seen in memory loss. A 10-minute massage at the right place can be relaxing and comforting for the patient. It is very true when they say that massages help you relax, but also there are so many health benefits that can really enhance their wellbeing.
Disruptive behavior – Massages are quite effective in disruptive behavior and the wandering habits of the patient.
Lost dignity – Touch is something a patient needs. It is a natural behavior that when a person is sick, he feels unwanted and undesirable. So, massages can bring back their lost dignity. It develops a bond of trust between the therapist and the patient.
Interaction – Massages help the Alzheimer patients to interact easily. The confidence they lose due to being sick can be retrieved by talking to them. Massages give them the confidence to interact with other people so they can express their feelings and thoughts.
Endorphin levels – As massages improve the blood circulation, endorphin levels are raised. Endorphin contributes towards the overall health of the body.
Brain activity – The boost in blood flow due to therapeutic massage improves the brain activity of the patient. It makes them active and more aware of their health status.
For more information on Medical Massage Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease, contact Kathleen Porter, LMT, MMP, AMA, at ABG Wellness, 480-322-4981.