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The Medically Frail Client

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Discussions and insight on techniques and treatment and support of clients who are considered medically frail such as those with ALS, MS, Parkinson's, in final stages of life, etc.

Members: 46
Latest Activity: Nov 25, 2013

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From your experiences, what modalities or techniques have you found that work best with these clients? 6 Replies

Started by Anita Bakke. Last reply by Shannon Rieder Aug 1, 2010.

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Comment by Lisa Curran Parenteau on March 26, 2010 at 2:17pm: Check out Ann Catlin's, the Owner/Director of the Center for Compassionate Touch's new post on the impact of healthcare legislation on the Massage Mag blog

Comment by Anita Bakke on February 2, 2010 at 12:45pm: If you are interested in Oncology Massage, don't miss The 2nd Oncology Massage Healing Summit, April 30 - May 2, 2010 Presented by Northwestern Health Sciences University, Bloomington, MN, co-sponsored by the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM). Check out www.S4OM.org for more information and registration form.

Comment by Ruth M. Schopper-Hughes on October 8, 2009 at 7:18am: Thank you for your advice. I will let you know what happens.

Comment by Anita Bakke on October 7, 2009 at 3:50pm: Hi Ruth,

Thanks for joining our discussions. You present a great question.

A single word answer to your question is VOLUNTEER!

A good way to find your way into any unknown area of work is to volunteer. Consider contacting and offering your services for a hospice, a care facility or hospital in your area, somewhere you might like to work. Start by volunteering a little (~4 hrs/wk) and you will soon know the framework, management style and staff of a company. This information will give you insight for future employment possibilities.

Keep in mind if a company likes what you provide, they will first attempt to get more free hours out of you. You will need to be able to guide them into paying for your services. There are many ways to verify the need for you but we can discuss those later. It is good however, to understand that this will come down the road.

In most states there are additional requirements to work in a facility where there are patients, such as getting a skin test (TB) or specific shots. If you are a volunteer the facility will often provide these tests and any shots you need for free.

I look forward to hearing of your progress.

Comment by Ruth M. Schopper-Hughes on October 7, 2009 at 11:47am: I am interested in working with Alzheimer's patients. I am getting older myself, and I am more sensitive to the elderly now. Also, I live in Pinellas County, FL and there are many facilities close by. I have worked for over 15 yrs. for someone else, and this will be my first venture to becoming an independant therapist. Now, I find myself entering the unknown...How in the world do I get started? Any suggestions?

Comment by Anita Bakke on August 31, 2009 at 5:44pm: I am a licensed massage therapist with specialities in Oncology massage, Lymphedema therapy and Reiki. I treat medically frail patients in various forms and stages of cancer, ALS, Parkinson’s, MS, and elder issues like arthritis, osteoporosis, etc. I also work with hospice patients and their caregivers. Please join the group and share your insights.

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