Back rubs can feel so nice, they stimulate circulation, promote relaxation and decrease muscle tension. For elderly people they benefit from them both physically and mentally. Giving a back rub demonstrates care and concern for the person. It improves their sense of well being.

The staff at Algonquin usually give the residents back rubs at the end of the day. Rubbing the back promotes sleep and comforts them before they go to bed. Lotions or powders are often applies to revitalize the skin. Residents who are confined to bed are given back rubs regularly. Their arms and legs are also massaged in order to increase circulation.

A long slow back rub with light pressure tends to relax the person. Rapid firm strokes have a stimulating effect. A good back rub should not take very long – no more than five minutes.

Back rubs are easy to administer and always make the resident feel better. The health care aides are very caring when they give them. All part of the service which makes Algonquin “A Place Called Home”.