Geriatric Massage (Elderly)

A Mindful Approach to Aging

The elderly population is diverse, with needs that vary based on mobility, cognitive health, and medical history. This 16-hour course goes beyond simple technique, emphasizing a mindful, "person-first" approach. You will learn to navigate the unique mental and emotional landscape of geriatric clients while maintaining the healthy professional boundaries essential for long-term care relationships.

Clinical Expertise & Practical Training

Participants will dive deep into the anatomy of aging and the physiology of common late-life diagnoses. The curriculum features Mary Kathleen Rose’s Comfort Touch® approach and teaches you how to modify familiar modalities—such as Reflexology, Acupressure, and Aromatherapy—to suit fragile or medically complex clients.

Course Highlights:

Pathology & Conditions: Targeted massage protocols for Arthritis, Diabetes, Parkinson’s, Joint Replacements, and Dementia.
Settings & Logistics: Adapting practice for hospitals, retirement centers, nursing homes, and home-care environments.
Communication Skills: Mastering interactions with medical staff, primary caregivers, and family members.
Safety & Ethics: Comprehensive training in infection control (Universal Precautions), contraindications, and CARE Note documentation.
Real-World Experience: A supervised site visit to interact directly with elderly clients in a professional setting.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion, students will be able to:

Demonstrate Comfort Touch® in seated, supine, and side-lying positions.
Adapt Positioning: Safely move and support clients in wheelchairs, hospital beds, and home-care settings.
Collaborate with Teams: Effectively communicate within a healthcare framework as a complementary therapist.
Manage Complexity: Address the psycho-social needs of those with chronic illness while adhering to strict safety precautions.

The Care Track Connection

This course is a cornerstone of the Body Wisdom Care Track. It integrates seamlessly with:

Oncology & Critical Care Massage: For safe bodywork in medical settings.
Hospice (Palliative Care) Massage: Focusing on end-of-life comfort and emotional support.
Death Doula Certification: For those wishing to provide non-medical support during the final transition.