Therapeutic massage to enhance family caregivers' well-being in a rehabilitation hospital. (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Williams, Natalie A.; Burnfield, Judith M.; Paul Springer, ; Wolf, Kayla; Buster, Thad
• Is Part Of: Complementary therapies in clinical practice. Volume 35(2019)
• Page Start: 361
• Page End: 367
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: Family caregivers -- Massage -- Rehabilitation -- Hospital -- Psychological wellbeing; Integrative medicine -- Periodicals; Integrative medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; Alternative medicine -- Periodicals; 615.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.03.020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-3881

Abstract

Abstract: Background and purpose: A massage therapy program was implemented to address the psychological well-being of family caregivers to patients in a rehabilitation hospital. The impact of massage "dosage" on caregiver stress and psychological well-being was examined in this study. Participants' perspectives on the program were also explored. Materials and methods: Thirty-eight family caregivers were randomized to receive either one massage per week or three massages per week for two weeks. Caregivers reported psychological symptoms and stress pre- and post-program. Program acceptability was assessed via responses on an exit survey. Results: Overall, 79% of massages were received (89% among program completers). Post-program symptom scores were lower than baseline scores for both groups ( F (1, 31) = 8.74 - 24.50, P < 0.01). Exit surveys indicated high program acceptability and perceived benefits. Conclusion: Findings suggest that massage services would be welcomed, utilized, and beneficial for improving the psychological well-being of family caregivers in a rehabilitation hospital.