Geriatric Care in Ayurveda

Nearly 120 million senior people in India suffer from various physical, psychological, economic, and spiritual issues. While the functionally and intellectually competent elderly can use the standard health-care facilities, these individuals require an active ageing programme to remain independent. Geriatric care comes into play in this situation.

Age is unavoidable. It is a normal occurrence and a necessary part of existence. As we grow older, our bodies experience a variety of physiological changes. Diabetes, bone diseases, high blood pressure, memory issues, and other conditions are all linked to growing older. As they get older, people have a tendency to have poor mental health, which is a significant problem. Disturbed mental health, as well as memory issues, raise the risk of falls and injury. Fractures in the elderly are more difficult to repair because age diminishes bone strength and makes it fragile.

According to Ayurvedic Classics, the human body is designed to be Shatayushi (live for 100 years) if the proper daily routines (Din Charyas) are followed, which include Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Body Massage), diet, and exercise. Failure to maintain a healthy lifestyle leads to lifestyle problems, which become more common as people get older.

Abhyanga

Ayurveda, India’s traditional medical system, Abhyanga is the most common massage. Warm oil is used in abhyanga, which is a sort of massage. The oil is applied to the whole body, from the scalp to the soles of your feet. Ayurveda emphasises the importance of preserving health through natural techniques such as massage and diet. This practice revolves around the use of oil. It’s supposed to boost general health and wellness when paired with massage strokes. A massage therapist is usually the one who does abhyanga. However, you can perform an abhyanga self-massage in the privacy of your own home.

The researchers discovered that rhythmical massage stimulated long-term heart rate variability, an indication of relaxation. The aromatic oil also helped, but only for a short time. Blood pressure in patients with prehypertension drops after Abhyanga. Massage techniques may have an impact on the circulatory system. The blood vessels dilate during a traditional massage. This improves blood pressure by increasing blood flow and decreasing artery resistance. Healthy skin is one of the key benefits of Abhyanga massage, according to practitioners. The oil is applied to the skin to nourish it, reportedly improving its overall appearance. Another claimed advantage of abhyanga is increased flexibility. It is considered to release shortened, tight muscles, reducing stiffness and increasing mobility.

Padabhyanga

Padabhyanga is derived from the Sanskrit words Pada, which means “to generate precise and special movements on the body with a mild oil massage.” Padabhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that involves administering heated herb-infused oil to the feet and then gently massaging them. It is thought to be a part of the daily Ayurvedic ritual known as Dinacharya, which is intended to maintain one’s health. Foot care and foot health are critical to one’s overall health. Certain pressure areas on the feet, known as Marmas, can aid in repairing and regenerating functionalities of various body parts when stimulated. Padabhyanga is one of the most calming and stress-relieving techniques, with a wide range of mental and physical benefits. Different oils are used for various body constitutions and medical conditions.

Padabhyanga is beneficial to all healthy people. It is even claimed to be a part of the Ayurvedic daily regimen for optimum health (Dinacharya). It is beneficial to the elderly in preventing or slowing the progression of degenerative diseases. It’s used to treat mental exhaustion, weariness, and sleeplessness.

Nasyam

Nasyam therapy is an Ayurvedic treatment that entails giving drugs and plant extracts through the nose to address various issues affecting the area above the shoulder. It’s an important aspect of Ayurveda’s Panchakarma treatment, which consists of five detoxification therapies. Nasya therapy, when done correctly, can help control migraine headaches, sinusitis, breathing congestion, infections, and a variety of other issues.

Herbal oils, medicinal powder, and Ayurvedic formulations administered through the nostrils are absorbed by the blood vessels and circulated through the circulatory system in Nasyam Panchakarma therapy. They have a relaxing impact on the nerves because they effectively reach the neurological system through nerve endings in the nasal cavity; they reduce stress and anxiety and promote restful sleep. Nasyam therapy has also been shown to slow down the ageing process and hair greying. The body is cleansed of toxins stored in the throat, nose, and head when oil is administered through the nasal canal during Nasyam therapy. 

Constipation and indigestion treatment

Digestive disorders are treated using a multi-pronged Ayurvedic approach. It focuses on the diet because the food we eat has an impact on our bowel movements. Ayurveda also advises changing one’s lifestyle in order to live a healthy life. The digestive system is strengthened as a result of this.

Constipation must be treated with dietary adjustments. The diet chosen must balance the Vata dosha. Ayurveda recommends warm, prepared foods for consumption. Cold drinks and foods should be avoided at all costs.

The importance of physical activity in improving body metabolism cannot be overstated. It is not advisable to sit in one place for an extended amount of time. Exercise on a regular basis and take a brief walk after a large meal. Constipation can be treated well with yoga. For those who suffer from constipation, there is a variety of Yogasanas that can help. It helps to relieve gas and bloating. It can also help with faecal passage and the repair of imbalances. It is suggested that you get the opinion of a Yoga practitioner before performing asanas (postures).

Constipation is treated with herbal formulations according to Ayurveda. These compositions have been used for millennia and are based on ancient Ayurvedic scriptures. They are tried-and-true methods for constipation treatment. The Ayurvedic tablets and capsules for constipation can assist in alleviating the problem.

One of the most commonly utilised herbal formulas for constipation treatment is Triphala. Amalaki, Bhibhitaki, and Haritaki are the three fruits that make up this combination. Triphala is available as a pill or powder. It acts as a natural laxative and aids in the proper functioning of the digestive tract. Sukumara Ghrita is medicinal ghee that is used to help with digestion. It is extremely beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Castor oil is used to make Eranda Oil, which is a natural laxative. It aids in the easy passage of bowel movements. Dashamula is a traditional herbal remedy produced from the roots of 10 different herbs. It has numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and stool removal. Grapes and other plants are used to make Abhayarishta. It aids in digestion and ensures that bowel movements are smooth and regular.

It’s critical to discover a geriatric care centre that can help the entire family manage the hurdles of caring for their senior loved ones when seeking medical attention for geriatric patients. The geriatric ayurvedic specialist’s wisdom can help you navigate the ageing process safely and with care. Consult our specialists at Madukkakuzhy Ayurveda now and avail the magnificent and magical therapy for your loved old ones.