Therapeutic touch in elderly care : A systematic literature review
Nkomesha, Vanessa; Kirwa, Marcella (2023)
Nkomesha, Vanessa
Kirwa, Marcella
2023
All rights reserved. This publication is copyrighted. You may download, display and print it for Your own personal use. Commercial use is prohibited.
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2023121437411
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2023121437411
Tiivistelmä
Aim: The study aims to enhance nurses' understanding of therapeutic touch interventions for elderly patients, promoting a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional medical treatments. Method: This study reviews the literature qualitatively and focuses on healing, therapeutic touch, and caring for the elderly. Data for this study was acquired from scientific websites such as EBSCO, PubMed, and others. The chosen data are in English, span the last ten to twelve years, and are pertinent to the objectives of the study. Other ethical requirements and the TENK and Novia Educational Research Board criteria were followed. Results: Therapeutic touch therapy (TT) has been shown to reduce anxiety and discomfort in individuals, including the elderly, but its efficacy is limited. Factors like individual receptivity, expectancies, and therapeutic alliances may influence outcomes. The placebo effect and individual variability also impact outcomes. TT is often used in conjunction with other therapies but should be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan. Approaching TT with a balanced perspective and communication with healthcare professionals is crucial. Conclusion: The study explores the benefits of therapeutic touch (TT) in elderly care, highlighting its primary effects like pain alleviation and relaxation. It emphasizes the importance of compassion and small acts of kindness, like hand massages. The authors suggest that more research, particularly qualitative, is needed to better understand TT's potential in elderly care.