Effectiveness of relaxation therapy on biochemical variables among elderly residing in homes for the aged

Dr. Alphonsa K K; Dr. Jijimole Mathew; Dr. Jaleel Abdul A; Dr. Vijayaraghavan R

Volume : IX, Issue : V, May - 2020

Effectiveness of relaxation therapy on biochemical variables among elderly residing in homes for the aged

Dr. Alphonsa K K, Dr. Jijimole Mathew, Dr. Jaleel Abdul A, Dr. Vijayaraghavan R

Abstract :

Background: Aging is an inevitable developmental phenomenon. As a person ages, possibility of problems multiply. The interplay of psychological and physiological disease is so widely recognized that hardly anyone believes it is possible to separate these disorders and they result in biochemical changes. The body�s natural relaxation response is a powerful antidote to stress. Relaxation techniques such as deep eathing, visualization, progressive muscle relaxation, music, physical exercise, meditation and yoga can help to activate the relaxation response. Objective: To assess the effect of relaxation therapy on biochemical variables among elderly in selected homes for the aged. Materials and Methods: This study embarks on the effect of relaxation therapy on the psychological problems of the elderly in old–age homes. Twenty elderly in the age group of 60–80 of both genders were included in the study after voluntary informed consent. Clinical profile blood investigation chart (Biochemical variables). It included blood investigations such as lipid profile (TC, TAG, LDL, HDL, VLDL) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) was assessed pretest and post test. Relaxation therapy (Jacobson�s progressive muscle relaxation with music, physical exercise, and laughter therapy) was given for an hour each in the morning and evening for 4 months successively. Results: There was a significant difference between the experimental group and the control group and a significant difference between the pre–test and post test scores of the experimental group at 0.001 level of significance after the introduction of the relaxation therapy. Conclusion: From the findings of the study, it is evident that alternative therapies are greatly useful in geriatric care and it could be recommended for the physical health and well–being of the elderly.