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Using a healing touch intervention in older adults with persistent pain: a feasibility study
Sheila Decker1, Diane Wind Wardell, Stanley G Cron
1University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX 77030, USA. Sheila.Decker@va.gov
Summary
Healing Touch (HT) is a feasible complementary therapy for older adults with persistent pain. This pilot study found HT showed potential benefits for pain and daily activities, though results were not statistically significant.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Pain Management
Background:
- Persistent pain is a common issue in older adults.
- Non-pharmacological interventions are sought to manage pain and improve quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of a Healing Touch (HT) intervention for non-homebound older adults with persistent pain.
- To establish an HT protocol for this population.
- To explore HT's effects on pain, daily activities, and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 20 non-homebound older adults experiencing pain.
- Participants were randomized to either a Healing Touch (HT) group or a Presence Care control group.
- Data on pain, activities of daily living, and quality of life were collected over time.
Main Results:
- Both groups showed non-statistically significant decreases in pain scores.
- The HT group demonstrated a non-statistically significant improvement in activities of daily living.
- Quality of life measures varied, decreasing in the HT group and increasing in the Presence Care group.
Conclusions:
- Healing Touch (HT) is a feasible intervention for older adults experiencing persistent pain.
- The study highlights the complexity of pain in older adults and suggests potential benefits of HT.
- Further research is warranted to confirm efficacy and optimize the HT protocol.
