Massage Therapy 

Massage therapy can provide comfort and relaxation at a time of increased anxiety and fear for hospice patients, as well as assuring family and caregivers that someone is providing a gentle and compassionate method of care. While palliative care strives to provide comfort and support to hospice patients, massage treatments focus on making the transition comfortable. Many individuals who receive end-of-life massage exhibit a positive response to massage therapy including a decrease in:

• emotional distress
• anxiety
• physical discomfort
• nausea 
• muscle and joint tension or stiffness.

Additionally, massage treatments can lead to improvements in circulation, which aides in digestion and prevents pressure sores. Massage therapy provides nurturing with a gentle, caring touch and physical connection to ensure the patient knows they are not alone. Massage therapy can restore emotional balance and comfort hospice patients, while directly impacting quality of life in a positive way for both patient and family.