Basic Advice

We know many of the therapists participating in "Touch a heart" event will have qualifications in geriatric massage and have experience in working with elderly. Would be especially good to hear from your experience and have feedback after this day. Your knowledge is much appreciate. 

For those therapists who do not hold such specific qualification we welcome you into this project as we think will add to your experience and bring new insights in work which can change your approach in giving treatments only for the better. 

This is basic advice we kindly post here to eliminate anything that may interrupt the smoothness of the day:

  1. make report with the elderly once you get to meet them. Take some time to talk briefly about the massage treatment you will give
  2. talk about the benefits of your treatment 
  3. ask permission to do the treatment from each one of the elderly (this shows respect and also can make a huge difference in the level of relaxation and benefits of receiving the massage in a relaxed atmosphere)
  4. environment: set up simple ways to have few small towels at hand and massage oil you use for hands and feet 
  5. keep good hygiene (use wipes for feet and hands and antibacterial gels so we avoid spreading any bacterial or fungal infections) Plus, good personal hand washing after each treatment is needed to avoid passing on infection
  6. at the end be patient and respond to any questions they may have from you
Before starting the treatment bare in mind that you treat fragile patients who haven't had often a massage. A good start would be to hold the hand or hold the foot for few seconds; only this can be a big step for them. Use very gentle movements like effleurages and light strokes and pay attention to any reaction that might be a sign of discomfort to be able to adjust your treatment for their needs.
We believe that your compassionate touch will bring the comfort and relaxation much needed by our seniors.
Thank you!
Resources: 

DISCLAIMER

All of the advice and information on touch-a-heart.org website is provided for general reference purposes only. The advice and information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; it should not be used as a substitute for the physician’s advice.  Touch-a-heart.org website recommends that you do your own research and consult a qualified health professional before choosing to pursue any treatment plan. Also, you should have the permission of the care home manager or hospice to give a short treatment of 15 minutes for each elderly.

All users should consult a qualified health practitioner before implementing any of the suggestions which may be found on touch-a-heart.org, if you fail to do so, you are acting at your own risk.

Touch-a-heart.org  website is not responsible for injury resulting from the use, misuse, and/or abuse of the information on this site. Please, consult the manager of the care home or/and the physician before starting the treatment day.

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