Massage For An Aging Population

Massage for an Aging Population

By Amber Mills.

As the population begins to age, more people are becoming aware of the benefits massage can bring to senior citizens. The Touch Research Institute has conducted studies that show massage therapy can provide emotional benefits to Alzheimer's patients, because it can facilitate relaxation and communication. For seniors with arthritis, massage can greatly help in decreasing pain, increasing range of motion, and improving circulation to increase natural joint lubrication.

According to the United States Census Bureau, between 2012 and 2050, the United States will experience considerable growth in its older population. In 2050, the population aged 65 and over is projected to be 83.7 million, almost double its estimated population of 43.1 million in 2012. The baby boomers are largely responsible for this increase in the older population, as they began turning 65 in 2011.

AMTA's (The American Massage Therapy Association) 18th annual Consumer Survey found that approximately 9 million people over the age of 55 had a total of 39 million massages in the previous 12 months. The reported reason for this population to receive massage was for medical purposes.

As we are seeing this shift in the population, the need for massage among our country’s senior citizens will continue to grow. It can provide a wide array of benefits, which will allow seniors to thrive both mentally and physically!

Amber Mills – Curriculum Director

“It is my hope that our students walk away from Soma with confidence in their clinical massage skills and their ability to naturally help the body heal.”