Frequently Asked Questions
What is an aged care massage?
Aged-care massage simply refers to a massage treatment that is tailored to the specific needs of an elderly client.
When booking an aged-care massage treatment with Blys your massage therapist will work with the client in a safe and gentle manner to address any areas of concern, whether that’s improving mobility and flexibility, reducing pain or stiffness, improving circulation or promoting relaxation to boost mental wellbeing.
What are the different aged care massage techniques?
The specific techniques used in an aged-care massage will depend on the individual needs of the client, however they’re often a fusion of relaxation and remedial massage therapies, focusing on a calm touch with restorative purpose. This therapy seeks to heal from the outside in, providing remedial relief.
The following Blys services are popular massage modalities booked by our aged-care clients:
- Swedish massage: A gentle, full-body massage that involves long strokes, kneading, and circular movements. It is often used to promote relaxation and improve circulation.
- Remedial Deep Tissue: Targeted massage therapy that is effective for relieving chronic pain and improving mobility.
- Chair massage: A seated massage that is provided in a portable ergonomic chair and focuses on the neck, shoulders, back, arms and hands. A seated char massage is a great option for elderly clients who may have difficulty getting onto a massage table.
What should I look for in an aged care massage therapist?
Every therapist on the Blys platform is trained and qualified in a variety of massage styles. Your aged care therapist will be experienced, qualified and knowledgeable in the particular practicalities of aged care massage, including pressure, ailments, palliative care, and how to tailor the massage for each client. All therapists are professional and compassion – we’re here to help.
Who would benefit from an aged care massage?
Aged care massage offers a range of physical and mental health benefits, making it an ideal treatment for all elderly clients looking to improve their quality of life.
Conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain, weak joints, muscle tightening or weakness, atrophy, decreased mobility, loss of circulation, compromised balance and oedema/lymphedema are common areas of concern for clients booking an aged-care massage.
While massage is a physical therapy, the healing power of touch can also help to combat feelings of anxiety, depression, stress and loneliness, by providing a personal, sensitive and compassionate experience.
Who should not get an aged care massage?
Whilst an aged care massage is designed for the elderly population, you must consult your health care practitioner before engaging in any kind of physical therapy. In particular, if you experience chronic pain, a terminal illness, cancer or are in palliative care or hospice, you must consult your health care professional to ensure that an aged care massage is safe and appropriate. Blys wishes to support every client around Australia to the best of our ability without compromising health.
Can I get an aged care massage near me?
Your sure can! A Blys aged care massage is available on-site. Blys has locations around Australia and we are constantly expanding our therapist network to reach as many people as possible. To see if aged care massage is available near you, call 02 5944 3897 to chat with our friendly team.
Who can use the HCP to cover for aged-care massage services?
Anyone over the age of 65 (or above 50 for First Nations people) who is eligible for HCP funding can use it to cover for aged-care massage services.
Why choose massage therapy for the elderly?
As we age, our bodies go through a process of natural degeneration. Whilst this experience is unique to each individual, it is fairly safe to assume that we will all be subjected to new aches in our joints and muscles, develop conditions and ailments that were once foreign concepts, perhaps lose our ability to move unaided, care for ourselves or remember everything. Massage therapy can assist in all these areas by providing a holistic physical treatment that also soothes the mind. Massage is beneficial to the brain as much as the body, providing a skilled hand and a compassionate soul to people who need it most.
What is end-of-life massage?
Death is a reality for everyone and can be a difficult time in anyone’s life. End-of-life care options include palliative care and hospice facilities. The aim of these institutions is to provide a comfortable, compassionate and supportive environment for those who are undergoing treatment for chronic diseases or living with a terminal illness. Massage shares this goal through the healing power of touch. A single massage session has the capacity to improve quality of life by addressing the symptoms of aging, chronic disease/pain or terminal illness. To inquire about massage services for end-of-life, please contact our team at 02 5944 3897.
What is geriatric massage?
Geriatric massage is the professional term for aged care massage. Geriatric massage is a style in and of itself and employs its own massage techniques to service the aging body. Those who experience Parkinson’s, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, or any other old-age-related condition can benefit from a geriatric massage. By using tailored pressure, flowing strokes and compassionate touch, your geriatric massage therapist can reduce pain and inflammation, improve circulation and natural joint lubrication, increase mobility and generally assist in relieving the side effects of aging.
Why is mobile massage the best for aged care?
Mobile massage services are especially valuable to elderly, disabled or otherwise compromised/vulnerable clients. Your Blys mobile massage therapist brings all their own equipment directly to the door of your home or room. Massages can be booked online or via the app with minimal effort. No need to leave, travel, park, and then do it all again on the return – everything comes right to you with Blys. We prioritise flexibility, convenience and practicality above all so that we maximise healing time and minimise everything else.
Can I book massage therapy for palliative care patients?
Yes, through Blys you’re able to book massage therapy for palliative care patients.
Palliative care massage is a type of massage therapy that is specifically designed to provide comfort and pain relief to patients with life-limiting illnesses. It is a gentle and soothing massage that is tailored to the patient’s needs and can help alleviate symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and depression. Massage therapists on the Blys platform have experience working with palliative care patients and will provide a safe and nurturing environment during the massage session. We understand that each patient’s needs are unique and that’s why our wellness team will work with the patient and their healthcare team to create a personalized massage therapy plan that is appropriate for their condition. You can get in touch with our wellness team by filling out our enquiry form.
How do I know if I am eligible to use my HCP for aged-care massage on the Blys platform?
The Australian Government determines the eligibility to use HCP to fund aged-care services. Check with your care provider or government support to confirm your eligibility.