Best Therapeutic Massage Chairs for Older Adults
Massage therapy offers a wealth of health and wellness benefits for older adults. However, booking regular massages with a professional masseuse can be costly and difficult to coordinate. A massage chair allows older adults to enjoy the benefits of a massage anytime they want from the comfort of home.
But how do you find the right chair? We’re going to share the best therapeutic chairs for elderly users and uncover the benefits of having a massage chair at home.
Health Benefits of Massage Chairs for Seniors
Massage is a natural, simple and drug-free way to help reduce pain, alleviate tension, improve circulation and more. A massage chair is an investment in your wellness and can help improve your quality of life.
Let’s look at some of the many health benefits of massage chairs for seniors.
Better Circulation
Massage can help improve circulation, which is crucial for overall health and well-being. Proper circulation ensures that blood and oxygen reach every organ for optimal functioning.
Good circulation keeps your heart healthy, speeds up healing and keeps your brain sharp. But as we age, it becomes more challenging to maintain proper blood flow. Having a massage chair at home means that seniors can reap the circulation-improving benefits of a massage anytime they wish.
Less Pain
One great benefit of massage is that it can help with pain. Many older adults suffer from pain, particularly arthritic pain. While massage won’t cure this pain, it can certainly help reduce it. Increased blood flow to affected areas can help reduce the inflammation and burning that lead to discomfort and pain.
A back massager for elderly users can also help with lower back pain.
Seniors who suffer from osteoarthritis will find that regular sessions in a massage chair can help reduce stiffness and pain. In addition, some experience improved mobility over time.
Less Stress
Many older adults suffer from stress. Over time, chronic stress can lead to depression, anxiety, chronic illness, gastrointestinal issues, muscle tension, migraines, high blood pressure and more.
Massage chairs help ease muscle tension and help the body relax to alleviate stress. At the same time, it also helps the body release endorphins, neurotransmitters and hormones that uplift your mood and make you feel good.
Improved Sleep
Up to half of older adults have difficulty getting to sleep and staying asleep. Poor quality sleep can lead to weight gain, depression, a higher risk of diabetes and other chronic health issues.
A therapeutic massage can help you get into a deep state of relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
4 Best Massage Chairs for Seniors
Massage chairs offer many benefits for seniors, but which one should you buy? If you’re looking for the best massager for elderly users, these four models are great options.
1. WholeBody® 7.1
The WholeBody 7.1 offers a relaxing, therapeutic massage thanks to FlexGlide and 3D orbital massage technology. Using warm air technology, the WholeBody 7.1 mimics the feel of a warm oil massage to melt away tension and stress. Plus, the BodyMap PRO feature allows you to target specific areas to get relief where you need it most.
Other additional features include:
- Five massage programs, including sleep and relax
- Retractable ottoman with calf and foot massager
Why It’s Great for Older Adults
The FlexGlide feature allows you to adjust the massage intensity for the shoulders and back, which is ideal for older adults who may need a gentler massage. The WholeBody 7.1 also allows you to adjust the leg rest and back independently for maximum comfort.
The calf and foot massager use CirQlation Figure-Eight technology to massage your calves in a gentle upward motion to improve blood flow toward the heart.
With a compact, swiveling design, the WholeBody 7.1 is an excellent option for older adults and can easily fit into any home.
Click here to learn more about the WholeBody 7.1.
2. Gravis ZG Chair
The Gravis ZG Chair offers a gentle massage for a truly relaxing experience. Air massage technology, multi-zone heating and zero gravity seating work together to alleviate muscle tension, improve blood flow and help reduce back pain.
Every part of the Gravis is adjustable (even the headrest), allowing for the perfect fit for your body. Control the position using the included remote, or download the app and make adjustments using your phone.
Why It’s Great for Older Adults
The Gravis is great for older adults because it delivers a gentler massage compared to other massage chairs. In addition, adjustability allows for the utmost of comfort, and multi-zone heating delivers a soothing experience.
When you’re not using the Gravis for a massage or to enjoy the zero gravity position, it blends in easily with any home decor.
Click here to learn more about the Gravis ZG Chair.
ZeroG® 5.0
The ZeroG 5.0 delivers a full-body massage to ease tired, aching muscles and stress. Kick back and relax in the zero gravity position with the One-Step Go To Zero function.
Featuring 3D FlexGlide technology, this chair delivers a realistic massage. Extra-wide seating offers additional comfort, and the BodyMap PRO function allows you to focus on key areas that are causing discomfort. The ZeroG 5.0 also comes equipped with a full calf and foot massager for a true full-body experience.
Why It’s Great for Older Adults
The ZeroG 5.0 delivers a relaxing massage and allows you to easily slip into the zero gravity position with the touch of a button. Extra-wide seating gives you a little more room for a more comfortable experience. Plus, the BodyMap PRO feature allows you to really target areas that need your attention.
With the added calf and foot massager, this chair is excellent for older adults who may have issues with swelling in the ankles and feet.
Click here to learn more about the ZeroG 5.0 chair.
4. Reflex SOL Foot and Calf Massager
If you have limited space or just don’t want to invest in a full massage chair, you can still enjoy a therapeutic calf and foot massage with the Reflex SOL. This is the best leg massager for elderly users. It’s easy to use, doesn’t take up a lot of space and helps you relax tired, aching feet.
The Reflex SOL uses CirQlation and Figure-Eight technology to mimic the movements of a professional massage therapist. The unit massages in an upward fashion to help improve blood flow back to the core.
Warm Air technology alleviates tension and stress, and the underfoot vibration soothe tired feet.
Why It’s Great for Older Adults
The Reflex SOL is great for older adults who have issues with circulation in the legs. The upward massage motion helps push blood flow back towards the heart to improve overall circulation in the legs.
The gentle heat and underfoot vibrations also help ease tension and soothe aching feet and calves.
Click here to learn more about the Reflex SOL.
Choosing the Perfect Massage Chair for a Senior
Now that you understand the benefits of massage chairs and know some of the top chairs for seniors, you may be wondering: How do I choose one?
Finding the right relaxing chair for old person doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some points to consider.
Massage Intensity
When choosing a massage chair for an older adult, one of the first things to consider is the massage intensity. Some chairs deliver a more rigorous massage than others. Those with more sensitive muscles and joints may prefer chairs that offer a gentler experience.
On the other hand, some older adults prefer a more intense massage to help with pain and severe muscle tension.
Choose a suitable intensity level to match the senior’s comfort level and preference.
Chair Size
The size of the chair is another important consideration. Consider where the chair will be placed and the size of the space. Massage chairs come in a wide range of sizes, including compact models that are ideal for smaller rooms.
Built-in Programs
Many massage chairs have built-in programs, like Sleep or Relax. These programs offer targeted benefits and make it easier for older adults to enjoy the experience they want. While automatic programs aren’t necessary, they may be preferred by seniors who want a simple, one-touch massage experience.
Leg and Calf Massager
For seniors with circulation issues and swelling in the feet and legs, a chair with a leg and calf massager may be a great investment. These chairs offer a full-body massage experience while bringing some much-needed relief from pain and swelling.
Zero Gravity
When choosing a massage chair for a senior, another important thing to consider is whether the chair can move into the zero gravity position.
Zero gravity can be beneficial for older adults. The position minimizes the impact of gravity on the body and helps decompress the spine. In addition, seniors who have issues with herniated discs or back pain may find that zero gravity brings some relief.
Heat
Many massage chairs also have lumbar heating to help ease muscle tension and stress. For older adults with stiff and aching muscles and joints, heat can bring relief from discomfort and pain.
When choosing a massage chair for an older adult, these are some of the most important features to consider. Of course, your budget will also be a consideration. However, it’s important to remember that a massage chair is an investment in your health and wellness. For older adults dealing with pain, tension and stress, it’s worth the cost of choosing a quality chair that offers all of the features they desire.
Dangers of Using Massage Chairs for Seniors
It’s easy to assume that massage chairs are safe for all seniors. While most can benefit from having their own massage chair, there are some older adults who should avoid them or only choose chairs with gentle settings.
- Seniors with muscle sprains, bruises and fractures should avoid using massage chairs. The massage rollers and vibrations can cause pain, additional bruising and inflammation.
- Older adults with osteoarthritis should be cautious when using massage chairs. High intensity settings may damage the spine.
- Seniors with a history of blood clots should talk to their doctors before using massage chairs.
- Those who are on blood thinners should stick to gentle massage settings. Intense massages can cause bleeding and bruising.
Can Insurance Cover a Massage Chair?
If massage chairs offer therapeutic benefits, can they be covered by insurance? Many older adults ask this question. Most are purchasing a massage chair to help alleviate pain or to support treatment for a medical condition. Can insurance help cover the cost of this investment?
Unfortunately, insurance companies typically do not cover the cost of a massage chair. Massage chairs do not have a DME or insurance medical code, so they aren’t covered by most policies.
That being said, it doesn’t hurt to contact your insurance company for clarification. Every policy and insurance company is different. While it’s not common for massage chairs to be covered, your policy may be the exception.
Final Thoughts
A massage chair can be a great investment for older adults. Along with relaxation and stress relief, the right chair may also help with pain, circulation and sleep quality. Review the chairs listed above to find one that’s ideal for the older adult in your life.