Rocking Away Depression and Anxiety

Anyone who has settled into a comfy rocking chair knows how soothing the back-and-forth motion can be. While it’s enjoyable for just about everyone, researchers have found that rocking is especially beneficial for nursing home residents with dementia. In fact, the repetitive, rhythmic motion of rocking can affect psychosocial well-being.

During one two-year study at a skilled nursing facility, residents with dementia were able to rock for an average of 101 minutes per day. The researchers saw improvements in resident depression/anxiety as well as reductions in PRN pain medication significantly related to the amount of rocking that was done. When study participants who enjoyed rocking continued doing so even after the study was complete, they demonstrated improved balance as measured by center of gravity.¹

The study’s authors also noted that reduced depression/anxiety and need for pain medication as well as improved balance all contribute to a better quality of life for the resident with dementia.¹ Rocking is also a safe, practical and non-labor-intensive source of relaxation for residents.

Despite rocking’s positive effects, many facilities have removed rocking chairs due to safety concerns. While old-fashioned rocking chairs might have contributed to falls, more modern designs address safety concerns and allow for safer transfers.

Professional Medical is proud to offer Thera-Glide safety gliders, which feature a patented auto-lock mechanism to help prevent falls. To learn more about these gliders as well as our complete line of fall prevention products, give us a call at (800) 648-5190 or visit us online at promedsupply.com. 

Reference

1 Watson NM, Wells TJ, Cox C. Rocking chair therapy for dementia patients: Its effect on psychosocial well-being and balance. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. 1998 November/December: 296-308.