As the population ages, seniors are increasingly exploring alternative healthcare options. Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) is a potential approach to improving their well-being by combining traditional medicine with evidence-based holistic therapies that address physical, emotional, and mental health. Senior home care providers and loved ones can encourage seniors to explore alternatives with their medical team.
What is Complementary and Integrative Medicine?
Complementary medicine refers to therapies used in conjunction with conventional treatments, such as acupuncture for pain management during cancer therapy. Integrative medicine blends complementary therapies with traditional medical techniques to produce a customized and integrated healthcare plan. Essentially, CIM treats the full person—mind, body, and spirit—while emphasizing safety and evidence-based approaches.
CIM and Seniors
Seniors may experience complex health issues such as chronic pain, arthritis, sleeplessness, and stress. Traditional medications can be useful, but they may have side effects, interactions, or other issues. CIM offers alternative or supplemental treatments to control symptoms and improve quality of life without relying heavily on medicines. Additionally, CIM promotes prevention and self-care, which helps seniors preserve their independence and vitality as they age. At the same time, senior home care can also remind seniors to practice self-care each day.
Popular CIM Practices for Seniors
Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been proven to be useful in treating chronic pain, including osteoarthritis and lower back pain, both of which are typical concerns among seniors. This treatment stimulates certain spots on the body to encourage natural healing and reduce inflammation.
Mind/Body Techniques: Yoga, tai chi, and meditation provide physical and mental benefits to seniors. For example, Tai Chi improves balance and lowers the chance of falls, while yoga improves flexibility and strength while also reducing stress. Additionally, meditation lowers anxiety, enhances awareness, and may even improve cognitive health.
Herbal Medicines and Supplements: Certain herbs and supplements, such as turmeric for inflammation or omega-3 fatty acids for heart health, might be beneficial supplements for a senior’s medical routine. However, seniors need to talk with a healthcare provider to avoid interactions with prescription medications.
Massage Therapy: Regular massages can help seniors manage chronic pain, increase circulation, and relieve muscle stiffness. It also promotes relaxation and can help to alleviate feelings of isolation or depression.
Nutrition and Functional Medicine: Senior home care can help seniors focus on creating a tailored diet that can help with deficiencies, increase energy, and avoid age-related disorders. Functional medicine practitioners can also assist with this, as they commonly create meal plans that are meant to treat specific illnesses, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
Is CIM the Right Choice?
While many CIM therapies have significant anecdotal evidence, not all are supported by extensive scientific investigation. Seniors, their loved ones, and senior home care can all collect evidence and resources regarding CIM so that seniors feel comfortable talking about it as a possible strategy with their primary healthcare team.
Complementary and integrative medicine takes a proactive and individualized approach to senior care, allowing seniors to improve their quality of life. These therapies can be quite beneficial in a variety of ways, including pain management. Senior home care can be a strong support, encouraging seniors to talk with their medical team about their concerns and questions they have.
Sources: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16883-complementary-therapy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/integrative-medicine-health/sections/overview
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/psychological-and-physical-practices-for-older-adults