October 13, 2020
Ageing is a physiological period of life in which various changes take place, meaning that the elderly individuals must be given special consideration as a group with regard to health care. Negative changes occur in health status and systems with advancing age. Elderly individuals face many complex health problems and negatively affect their quality of life. Constipation is one of the common problems in the elderly individuals.It is estimated that 40% of individuals aged 65 and older experience constipation, which increases to 74% if they live in a nursing home. Left untreated, constipation can cause fecal incontinence, anal fissures, bowel perforation, gas, and bloating. The main non-pharmacological methods commonly used in the treatment of constipation are lifestyle changes, including increasing physical activity, fluid consumption, and fiber consumption. In addition, biofeedback, acupuncture, acupressure, reflexology, abdominal and aromatherapy massage are other preferred methods for constipation management.
Abdominal and aromatherapy massage is a safe, effective, non-invasive and non-pharmacological method with no side effects. It can be applied by the person himself, a relative or a professional. The use of appropriate aromatic oils increases the effectiveness of abdominal massage. An abdominal massage with lavender and ginger essential oils (diluted to 2% in sweet almond oil) decreased constipation severity, softened stool consistency, and reduced symptoms associated with constipation. Five mL of the oil blend were massaged into the abdomen for 15 minutes between 9:30am and 12:00 on 5 weekdays over the course of 4 weeks. A control group received no massage.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S0531556522003321
To mimic the study, add 1 drop each of ginger and lavender to 5 mL of carrier oil and massage to the lower abdomen in a clockwise motion for 15 minutes.