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Benefits of Massage Therapy for Hospice Patients

The hospice services at Triniti Home Health and Hospice focus on the happiness and welfare of those nearing their end-of-life journey. Through our compassionate care, we provide pain and symptom management for patients as well as spiritual support for them and their families. One of the ways in which we help regulate discomfort is through massage therapy. Here, we take a closer look at some of the benefits of massage therapy for hospice patients.

Massage Versus Massage Therapy

First, is there a difference between a massage and massage therapy? Well, kind of. In general, a massage is a gentle relaxation treatment to help relieve muscle tension and stress. Whereas massage therapy is a more targeted and specialized manipulation of soft tissues used to provide comfort. That’s what our talented team of licensed massage therapists does in a number of ways.

The Calming Power of Touch

Often when patients enter hospice, they are in a state of feeling or being fragile, whether emotionally or physically. So, even outside of targeted massage therapy, the kindest act of physical touch can bring peace and comfort. From a foot or leg rub to a scalp massage to simply holding someone’s hand, the calming power of touch goes a long way toward helping hospice patients feel relaxed and cared for.

Improved Circulation and Pain Management

Many hospice patients have limited or no mobility, and that lack of movement reduces blood flow throughout the body. But massage therapy works to relax deep tissue, muscles, and tendons to promote circulation. By stimulating blood circulation, the body delivers oxygen and nutrients to pained areas to help alleviate discomfort and provide some relief.

Massage Therapy for Comfort

Just as a touch can bring comfort to hospice patients, massage therapy goes even further. Confronting end-of-life uncertainty can make patients feel uneasy and fearful for what lies ahead. That’s where massage therapy comes in. Through relaxing muscle and tissue manipulation, the brain releases serotonin, a chemical messenger that affects mood, anxiety, and emotion. Increased serotonin levels can bring patients some relief and comfort, helping to enhance their perspective and temperament while allowing them to better cope with feelings of the unknown.

Better Sleep Through Massage Therapy

Poor sleep or lack of it can make anyone feel agitated and irritable. And for those experiencing terminal conditions, adequate rest is especially important. Sleep may be difficult to come by due to environment, reduced physical activity, or feelings of stress and anxiety. Massage therapy can help relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation, allowing hospice patients to fall asleep easier and get more restful sleep.

Massage Therapy from Triniti

These are just some of the benefits of massage therapy for hospice patients and a few of the ways in which we can help improve quality of life for those nearing the end of their journey. Our team of compassionate therapy specialists is licensed and experienced in providing a guiding hand as well as comfort and peace for our patients. Contact us today to learn more about massage therapy through Triniti’s hospice services.