Dementia and Massage Therapy

Many elderly individuals become sensory deprived as their faculties fade but the basic need for touch remains constant. As individuals lose sensory and cognitive skills, they become unable to interact socially, which may lead to feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety and agitation. Touch often remains the last form of communication when all other avenues have surrendered to the disease. When massage therapy is administered to patients in the end stages of dementia, it fosters feelings of intimacy and emotional connectedness.

Dementia is a slow progression of symptoms, sometimes lasting decades. At the onset, patients experience memory loss, confusion, language problems, changes in mood and difficulty performing daily tasks. This leads to an increase in anxiety and agitation, sometimes causing the patient to act out in ways considered socially unacceptable or improper. Sleep patterns become disrupted during the progression of dementia, and massage has been useful in treating insomnia. Additionally, many individuals suffer from a loss of appetite as Alzheimer's progresses, causing significant weight loss, resulting in physical frailty. A gentle hand massage given during light conversation has shown to improve appetite within an hour of the patient receiving it.

Massage can also stimulate the nervous system of Alzheimer's patients, helping to maintain nerve passageways that are in a state of decline due to the disease. A gentle massage provides relief and also aids drug therapies, possibly as a result of increased circulation. A neck and shoulder massage helps maintain upper body strength and muscle tone.

This blog post was written by Michelle Chaves-Torres, Arbor Hospice Massage Therapist and Complementary Therapy Coordinator. You may contact Michelle by commenting below or emailing her at mchaves-torres@arborhospice.org.

Dear Caregivers - A Letter from Another Caregiver

Dear Caregivers,

Caregiving is a challenging yet deeply rewarding experience. Having cared for my mother for more than six years, I know how important your job can be. Caregviers play an essential role; one that sometimes does not receive the appreciation it deserves. Some caregivers work around the clock providing care to loved ones like I did with my mom. Others provide support for a set period of time each week, others from a long-distance. Regardless of your role, please know that you are so very important, and that you are not alone. There are millions of people providing care for a loved one and there are people who you can turn to for support.

As my mother's Alzheimer's Disease progressed, I experienced both trials and tribulations. I was blessed with a wonderful mother and I never regretted caring for her. Throughout her illness, my mother maintained her comedic personality. She made me laugh each day, and I consider it an honor to have cared for my mother, my best friend. When her illness presented an obstacle, I sought help from family, friends and the community. My family helped when I called on them for something. I prayed for peace and acceptance when my mom refused to eat. Neighbors, friends and our church community visited, offering their comfort. And, when my mom seemed to be nearing the end of life, I turned to Arbor Hospice. They provided me with additional support and ensured my mom's medications and supplies were delivered right to my door.

I know this is not what all caregivers experience. Sometimes, caregiving can be too much to handle. Other times, caregivers do not have a community of support like I did. I encourage you to let go of the things you cannot control. No matter how much you wish to make the disease go away, sometimes you cannot. Finding peace with that may be a short or long journey. It is important to remember that like you, your loved one cannot control his/her disease. I treated my mom like nothing was wrong; I talked to her the same way I did before Alzheimer's Disease. I remembered that it was the disease that affected my mom's memory. In her heart, she knew who I was.

Remember that you cannot neglect yourself. You have to share the love you are giving with yourself. It is much easier for your own needs to be buried in your "to do" list. You are taking on a large share of responsibility for not only yourself, but another person. If you wear yourself out, you will not be of any help to your loved one. Seek support from family, friends, neighbors and your community. And always remember that you need not be alone.

Sincerely,
Rosemarie Gray

Rosemarie Gray is the daughter of one of the thousands of patients Arbor Hospice cares for each year. Thank you Rosemarie for sharing your story and advice to the millions of other caregivers throughout the country.