Most senior citizens feel their pampering and spa days are over. They feel it is an indulgence they can no longer afford or deserve. Research shows that self-esteem climaxes and starts waning after age 60. Now that they are retired and not working outside the home, seniors feel they can do without that kind of reward and special attention. Nothing could be further from the truth. Seniors deserve and can reap dividends from routine spa treatments. Let’s look into the benefits of spas for seniors from Bayside and elsewhere.
Benefits of Spas for Seniors
The Spa Industry Association has long recognized the importance of treating the elderly population. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the therapeutic effect spa treatments can have on the elderly and others who suffer from chronic illnesses.
Here are some of the benefits:
- Massaging arthritic stiff joints can relieve muscle aches and pains has been shown to lessen pain as it relaxes the body and nervous system.
- Mobility improves with massage since kinks and knots are worked out.
- Lymph drainage massage activates the lymphatic system to rid the body of toxins and excess water more efficiently. This is great for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic venous insufficiency, and lipedema which involve tissue inflammation and swelling.
- Dry skin is moisturized with massage oil and deep, gentle rubbing.
- Even depression can be alleviated as massaging triggers the release of hormones and endorphins such as oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine.
- The aromatherapy that so often accompanies spa treatments helps alleviate depression and stress. Moreover, the essential oils lavender, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, and clary sage have all been used to help boost mood.
- So many seniors suffer from insomnia. Luckily, this can improve with spa tub treatments which are soporific. Again, the essential oils lavender, bergamot, and chamomile all have sleep enhancing effects. The deep relaxation of spa treatments almost always results in improved sleep in seniors.
- With the elderly being alone and isolated for a good part of their time, the socialization that comes with a visit to the spa is nothing to dismiss. Furthermore, they interact with other visitors and therapists in a happy setting as opposed to a doctor’s office.
- Spa treatments are all about touch. If nothing else, the therapeutic touch experience should not be undervalued.
Day Spas For Seniors Are a Great Option
For many seniors, going to an exotic location is not practical in terms of logistics, affordability, and energy level. They need not miss out though! There are day spas in most areas and there are even mobile spas in many localities that specialize in bringing spa services to seniors. They are trained in the issues unique to the elderly and can be hired to come on a regular basis. A simple internet search will yield a list of spas in your area that you should definitely check out.
But, For Those Who CAN Make the Trip……
A vacation at a relaxing spa can do wonders for a senior’s well-being. Many spas are located at natural spring resorts that have benefited visitors for centuries. These resorts offer relaxing hydrotherapy baths in naturally heated pools. They also provide spa services such as rejuvenating massages, facials, and body treatments. Moreover, many have handicap accessible facilities as well. Seniors will appreciate the accessibility of the resorts. Many resort rooms come with wider doors and grab bars to accommodate guests with mobility issues.
Historic Spas For Seniors: Perfect Vacation Destination
Roosevelt Baths & Spa: Saratoga Springs, New York
Did you know that the emerald color of the healing springs is derived from the water’s high mineral content? Guests at the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa are treated to luxurious, sparkling baths in beautiful tubs. They also get to enjoy exfoliating skin treatments that rejuvenate, detoxify, and renew. Seniors who enjoy walks will likely appreciate the nearby Saratoga Springs State Park. The park boasts a picturesque lake and one of the oldest outdoor pools in the state.
Native Americans have long treasured the healing springs at Saratoga. For centuries, tribes like the Mohawk have harbored a deep reverence for the “place of swift water.” Eventually, white settlers descended on the region in the 19th century. Not long after, doctors began urging their patients to “take the cure” at the springs. Today, locals tout the spring’s beneficial effect for sufferers of bone, muscle, and joint ailments.
The Greenbrier: White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
The Greenbrier has attracted former presidents and dignitaries to its therapeutic waters since 1778. This popular spring is located in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. Today, the modern Greenbrier consists of cozy cottages, resort rooms, and condominiums. Guests enjoy a variety of spa treatments and meditation therapies. They also savor full-body treatments and massage therapies.
The Greenbrier hotel has its own clinic in addition to the spa. The clinic offers a comprehensive wellness examination and cosmetic surgery for interested guests. Seniors who appreciate a variety of activities will love the on-site championship golf course and casino.
The Bedford Springs Resort: Cumberland Valley, Pennsylvania
This historic spring is located in Cumberland Valley in Southern Pennsylvania. Dr. John Anderson purchased the property in 1796 and opened its first resort spa in 1805. Due to the popularity of the waters, Dr. Anderson built a hotel on the premises in 1806. It was called the Stone Inn and was the resort’s first hotel. Subsequently, he added an indoor swimming pool in 1905. The pool is fed by the property’s spring waters. Guests can enjoy the heated pool at any time of the year. Omni Resorts currently manages this hotel. Today, its Springs Eternal Spa offers therapeutic bathing, soothing massages, and beauty treatments.
Mission Point: Mackinac Island, Michigan
This resort is on a national landmark island and has a vintage feel. Mission Point was established in 1820 when Reverend William Ferry, a Protestant missionary, established Mission Church, an early protestant church in the Midwest. Thus, the southeast end of Mackinac Island was named Mission Point.
Listed as one of the best destinations for seniors by Travel + Leisure Magazine, The island has banned motor vehicles and boasts of historic architecture. Family owned and operated since 2014, Mission Point truly has the personal touch. While Mission Point is not expressly a spa, the Lakeside Spa and Salon is sure to be a treat. You can book full day treatments or shorter time slots as you desire. Whatever you choose, enjoying a relaxing horse drawn carriage ride will certainly add to your serene feeling.
Carvallo Point: Sausalito, California
Another Travel + Leisure Magazine favorite for seniors is in Sausalito. The Historic Cavallo Point Lodge is a landmark San Francisco Bay Area hotel restored with authentic turn-of-the-century details. It is situated in historic Fort Baker, within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Carvallo Point’s Healing Arts Center and Spa offers clinical massage, nutrition and training, energy work, meditation, hypnotherapy and guided imagery, healing arts, and herbal remedies. Spa treatments also include time in a meditation pool for registered guests. An in-house integrative medicine physician is on site and can responsibly combine western medicine with traditional East-West practices to address your specific issues.
Arizona Biltmore: Phoenix, Arizona
On February 23, 1929, the Arizona Biltmore opened and soon became the private retreat for some of the most influential people of the age. The hotel has been meticulously restored as a reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour. The resort’s historians can regale you with its storied past.
The Biltmore’s Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden is a place to feel centered in the desert. Along with the full complement of spa treatments, the spa also offers a salt room where you can experience a rejuvenating healing energy that reduces stress. Many report that salt treatments boost the immune system, heal skin and respiratory conditions, and have anti-aging properties. It’s like visiting the beach and breathing in the sea air. All this in a luxurious desert resort.
Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo, Florida
Speaking of the beach, an east coast destination and another venue listed in Travel + Leisure Magazine is the Bungalows Key Largo. Off the coast of Florida, this adults only resort feels like an island paradise. The Zen Garden Spa has outdoor treatment cabanas and waterfront treatment tiki with a view of the Bay. The standard massage and body treatments are just the beginning. There is a Himalayan salt treatment room and a eucalyptus steam room. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the Zen pool and hot tub as well. It is truly a serene and opulent experience. Though seniors may not want to take advantage of all the activities available, you cannot escape the overarching emphasis on relaxation.
Whether you decide to enjoy the benefits of spas for seniors at home or a bit further away, seniors and their loved ones should certainly give serious consideration to incorporating these services into their care plan!
David York Agency Can Help
At David York Agency, our priority is the health and well-being of our seniors. To that end, we encourage senior vacations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (718) 376-7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn
