Massage at care homes: what do I need to consider?

[Destiny Surdyk]

Hi all,

I am embarking on some charity work at care homes. It will most likely homes for the elderly right now but I would be interested in expanding to any other type of home in the future.

Has anyone had any experience in this domain? If so I would be interested any in information you have to offer?

Any food for thought would be greatly appreciated and also any tips (like will I need a police check) etc would be invaluable.

Thanks ins advance



~lo:~

 

[Rohan B]

Hi Lollo

It's good to hear you will be giving massage in care homes. I have worked with patients in a nursing home. Just be careful not to do any lifting or turning yourself get the staff who are trained to help you. It may be that you will be giving hand massages or feet in which case this won't apply.

The reason I ask is that I had a private client some years ago. I had seen her for many years when she was fit and healthy, eventually she had a medical condition similar to Parkinsons Disease which caused a deterioration physically until eventually she couldn't communicate, and her mobility was severely impaired. Nevertheless, she loved her massage and I continued doing this for some time. What I learnt from this is that it is important to ask for help from carers or nursing staff who have had training in lifting, turning etc to avoid getting strains and injuries yourself.

Something else that may be required is to have a criminal records check done - if it is needed it will be submitted by the charity - this is to safeguard vulnerable clients from anyone who might take advantage of their situation.

If I think of anything else I will let you know.

Luv Binah
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