By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM
Alzheimer's Information: The many complicated aspects of Alzheimer's
disease and other forms of dementia make caring for patients and their
caregivers a challenge. Unfortunately, Alzheimer's currently has no known cure.
This makes it a disease that ruins lives both physically and emotionally, as
caregivers watch their loved ones slowly succumb to Alzheimer's devastating
effects. However, there is hope in alleviating some of the issues through a
Japanese practice known as Reiki. The practice has shown effective in clinical
studies as a treatment for both patients and their caregivers alike.
Reiki is both a spiritual and alternative
medicine practice originally developed by a Japanese Buddhist monk in the
1920s. It is based on the belief that the power of physical touch, by way of
the palms of the hands and tips of the fingers, can be used to channel the
body's natural energy in a way that promotes general healing and overall good
health.
There are two forms of Reiki in use today:
traditional Japanese Reiki and Westernized Reiki. The traditional form relies
on the practitioner's intuition and experience to determine where best to apply
touch. The Westernized treatment uses a more systematic roach, relying on
specific touch points for specific purposes. It stands to reason that
Westernized Reiki is the form most commonly practiced in the United States.
Alzheimer's Treatment
One of the most promising areas of treatment for
Alzheimer's patients is that of improving mild cognitive impairment. According
to Psychcentral, numerous peer-reviewed clinical studies have shown that the
proper application of Reiki can indeed improve cognitive impairment among
dementia patients.
In one study referenced by Psychcentral, two
groups of patients were studied side-by-side: one that received regular Reiki
treatments and another that did not. At the conclusion of the study, the group
receiving the treatments showed measurable improvement in cognitive
functioning, memory and general behavior.
The most exciting thing about Reiki is that
caregivers can learn to administer it themselves. For just the cost of the
lessons, which might be covered with private health insurance, caregivers can
learn a skill that will provide a real benefit to their loved ones. It is a
very cost-effective way to reduce the negative cognitive effects of dementia.
Obviously, Reiki will not cure the disease or prevent its progression, but it
does make dealing with it easier.
Treatment for Caregivers
Reiki is also an exciting treatment for
caregivers who struggle right along with their suffering loved ones. Why do
caregivers need care? Studies have shown that caregivers suffer from very high
stress levels as a result of caring for an Alzheimer's patient while at the
same time trying to maintain the daily routine. That stress can result in a
variety of health problems, including elevated blood pressure, anxiety or
nervousness, heart problems, and so on.
Another problem caregivers have is one of
neglecting their own health. Their busy schedules have often been burning the
candle at both ends to the point of not taking care of themselves. Any health
problems resulting from the increased stress are not dealt with, making matters
much worse.
Reiki is able to relieve much of the stress
caregivers’ experience, thereby making it easier for them to care for loved
ones and themselves simultaneously. Other family members can learn to
administer Reiki so the caregiver does not have to pay for individual sessions.
How It Works
Reiki is practiced as a series of light touches
and taps based on the visual appearance of the head, neck, and other portions
of the body. The practitioner will blow on the skin, perhaps tap it lightly a
number of times, or apply a certain amount of pressure with the palms of his
hands. The practice is believed to help channel the natural energy in the human
body in a specific direction, as determined by the practitioner.
Reiki is also practices at a distance making this
form of alternative healing ideal for anyone living with Alzheimer’s or
dementias. The person receiving Reiki feels calmer and more relaxed but does
not have to leave the comfort of their environment to receive the benefits.
Remembering4You.com recommends TheHealerWithin.com/complementary-therapies for
more information.
Other than that, no one really knows why Reiki
works as an Alzheimer's patient and caregiver treatment. However, we do not
really need to know for patients and their families to benefit. As long as
clinical studies show Reiki can be beneficial to patient outcomes, it is a
treatment that should be included in the full compendium offered by doctors.
At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com.
