Module1 – Integrating Massage Into Hospice Care

For: Massage and Health Care Professionals

Objectives: Upon completing this module participants will be able to:

• Describe the history and approach of hospice care

• Define the role of massage in hospice care

• Identify the benefits of Everflowing touch and massage in care for the dying and incorporate Everflowing touch skills into your existing touch or massage practice

• Implement modification of massage techniques for working with physically and/or psychologically vulnerable persons

• Demonstrate self care strategies for the practitioner at the bedside

• Implement comfort strategies for the massage client

• Provide an Everflowing touch session for a client in bed

Teaching Methods

The structure of this module includes lecture, discussion, question and answer periods, charts, visuals, group sharing, demonstration, supervised hands-on practice, one-on-one feedback and group debriefing.

Content

This day begins with a grounding meditation, an overview of the day, guidelines for creating emotional safety in a group, and an introduction from the Everflowing supervisor and participants.

The lecture and discussion format begins with an overview of hospice care and the role of massage in hospice care, including how to work effectively with other team members, inviting participants to ask questions and share personal experiences.

The massage session dialogue begins with learning how to create a safe container for the touch relationship. Standard precautions for hands-on care are discussed, and thorough hand washing and use of the equipment is demonstrated.

Massage modification for working safely with dying persons is discussed with the use of charts and the Everflowing supervisor’s personal experience.

A demonstration of pillow positions and comfort strategies, through the use of props, is provided for a client positioned on their side. Supervised hands-on practice follows with debriefing and a question and answer period.

Closure is brought to the day with a meditation.

Module 1 constitutes 7 contact hours.

“As a massage therapist with a primarily geriatric/hospice clientele, I often felt sore, tired and emotionally depleted. Irene’s classes provided me with tools, techniques, skills and personal practices which I use to continually enhance my comfort at the bedside, and to revitalize my physical energy.” — Maureen M. Trilsch, C.M.T., Hospice Practitioner

Grounding Circle - Ana Lyon, Kathleen Phalen, Irene Smith, Bodhi Wright, and Cari Leversee