Guest Post: Benefits of Massage Therapy in Reducing Dementia

By Sara Rasheed

Dementia is a collective term, which describes several symptoms of cognitive decline. If someone finds difficulty in memorizing something, notices an increase in forgetfulness, a decrease in cognitive skills, difficulty in thinking and in performing daily tasks, as well as problems with communicating, a visit with a doctor is recommended.

While many of these issues come with aging, further testing can help determine if this is normal, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or actual dementia. Whether or not there is a formal diagnosis, it’s never too early to take steps to feel better. People have been using massage for decades to enhance both physical and mental well-being.

Inducing Relaxation
Massage therapy provides multiple benefits. It is one of the best ways to reduce pain and induce relaxation throughout the body. It reduces stress and can facilitate more restful sleep. Those suffering from dementia can become agitated and anxious. Massage can help calm body and mind almost instantly.

Slow Down of Mental Deterioration
Some believe that over time, massage can play a significant role in decreasing memory loss. By relaxing the muscles of the body, massage may have the ability to slow down the rate of dementia. Frequent, even weekly massages, promote healing by regenerating dying and damaged brain cells or neurons, and creating a sense a calm from head to toe.

Increases the Production of Endorphins
Time and again, studies have shown that massage therapy is key to increasing endorphins in the body. Endorphins, also known as happy hormones, are beneficial in balancing the immune system and staying healthy. And, who doesn't want to feel stronger?

The Power of Touch
Many older people and frail elderly suffer from a lack of touch. Massage provides the human and physical interaction so needed, making them feel better physically and psychologically.

Human touch, regardless of whether in the form of regular massage therapy or by using a massage chair, can lead to an overall drop in stress and anxiety even for those in a state of serious cognitive decline.

Increased Communication
A trained massage therapist knows to ask about any discomfort or problem areas of the body, so the recipient gets the most benefit out of the massage session. A licensed professional will also encourage open communication from beginning to end, which can help make an older person apt to share health or personal concerns.

Inhibiting the Production of Stress Hormones
Massage can be especially helpful in inhibiting the production of stress hormones, which increase anxiety and stress levels in the body. As a result, a quality massage can make someone suffering from mild to severe dementia feel better for hours and days after the massage is over.

Sara Rasheed is a psychologist by profession, who enjoys home-based work and travel. She is passionate about the benefits of massage, massage chairs and other relaxation techniques. She regularly posts on mymassagechairs.com.