Since the beginning of the year residents at TriCare James Ommaney Retirement Community have been treated to free 10 minute massage once a week.
Trained myotherapist, Rachel Moore, volunteers her time each Monday in the Village’s gym, keeping resident’s moving through a range of massage techniques.
Myotherapy is a form of physical therapy to treat or prevent soft tissue pain and restricted joint movement.
Ms Moore works predominantly in the area of infant and pregnancy massage and says she enjoys the opportunity to volunteer at TriCare James Ommaney as she’s passionate about keeping people moving, improving posture and loves working with an older generation.
“I am very close to my own grandparents.
Not long ago my grandmother told me she sometimes feels invisible now that she’s older so this is my way of giving back to my community and changing that perception. Touch can be very healing,” said Ms Moore.
The physical benefits of massage include increased circulation, range and motion, and decreased joint and muscular pain. It can also help to reduce stress.
“The benefits are not only physical; there are also many social and emotional benefits to massage such as relaxation.
Ms Moore also says it’s as much about social interaction as it is about healing with many residents who don’t normally take part in Village activities benefiting from the treatment, and time spent with others.
“I love being able to provide a little bit of luxury for the residents, and they have so many great stories to tell. It makes me realize how lucky our generation is,” said Ms Moore.
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