Touch may help to reinforce positive feelings for the person you are caring for. Stroking or massage can be a useful way of helping someone to relax, and sometimes relieves pain and sleeplessness.
Touch needs to be gentle, especially if the person you are caring for is frail. It is important to be sensitive to their wishes and remember that feelings can change from day to day.
Complementary therapies such as relaxation, massage, aromatherapy and reflexology are sometimes used alongside conventional healthcare.
If you wish to use complementary therapies – sometimes called alternative therapies - please discuss it with the nurse or GP who can tell you if there is any medical reason why they would not recommend a particular treatment.
Learn how to make someone comfortable in bed in this video
This film explains how to help someone you are caring for wash
Our film has essential tips on helping someone stand and walk
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