A <\/span>lack of human touch can have significant consequences<\/span><\/a> that are both psychological and emotional. Older adults are at risk of a lack of touch, particularly those that are living in long-term aged care, and those living with dementia. Most of the \u2018touch’ that these people experience is typically from the caregivers who are assisting them. Even though this touch may be carried out in a gentle and caring way, the older person still associates it with their obligations to carry out routine procedures and tasks for their care.<\/span><\/p>\n
There are a number of reasons why older adults lose the experience of touch as they age:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
Regular, compassionate touch has a number of benefits for the elderly. Physical touch has been reported to: <\/span><\/p>\n
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There are a number of ways for caregivers to incorporate touch into their daily routine. Hugs, embraces, and holding hands are simple ways to increase the wellbeing of an older adult through touch.<\/span><\/p>\n
A genuine smile, eye contact and a gentle touch can mean a lot to the person in your care. It can completely change their day by imparting positive feelings such as happiness, hope and acceptance. Some of the ways that you can gently touch someone in your care include:<\/span><\/p>\n
If you are interested in practicing touch with someone in your care, the <\/span>Compassionate Touch\u00ae course<\/span><\/a> may be of use to you. Compassionate Touch\u00ae combines skilled touch with compassionate presence to enhance quality of life for those and reduce need for medication.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"