for elders, palliative patients and end of life care
Palliative massage, or Comfort Therapy as it is called in hospice settings, is gentle, modified massage and supportive touch. It involves light pressure, care for fragile skin and extra caution around tender spots, such as arthritic joints or wounds. Clients receive this type of massage wherever they feel most comfortable, whether that is lying in bed, sitting in their favorite recliner chair, or sitting upright in a wheelchair. It is modified to accommodate each client’s unique circumstances and is catered to their individual comfort needs. Palliative massage can ease body aches and pains, reduce swelling, moisturize skin, lower the risk of pressure wounds, increase relaxation, improve sleep, and offer human connection. It can break the isolation that so many face in this chapter of life, especially those with memory loss, dementia, hearing loss or speech impairment.
Palliative massage sessions are one hour, with hands-on time varying, depending on the client’s condition and desires. Dealing with a chronic illness, whether it’s yours or someone you care for, can be a rollercoaster. Symptoms can shift quickly. I always call the day of the massage to confirm the appointment and have a very flexible cancellation policy for comfort therapy sessions. Palliative massage sessions are $75
Do you know someone who could benefit from palliative massage? I am available to answer any of your questions and set up an initial session over the phone.