Getting older comes with its share of aches and ailments. It is not uncommon for seniors to have a slew of medications and vitamins to deal with, perhaps in a pill holder with AM and PM slots. Due to the prevalence of using specialists in Western medicine, who are likely not talking to each other, too often seniors are overly medicated, sometimes leading to dangerous results.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a bit different. In its holistic approach, the goal is to bring balance to the body. By treating the patient and not the symptoms, the result is an improvement in overall health and tending to multiple issues at once. For example, cancer research has shown that acupuncture is a useful modality for conditions where ‘symptom clusters’ occur.

While we don’t recommend seniors to drop all medications, acupuncture can potentially minimize the use of prescriptions and in some cases act as a booster. For example, one study found that patients with hypertension saw a more significant drop in blood pressure when combining acupuncture with medication. When considering if acupuncture is right for you or a loved one, here are some benefits to take into consideration.

1. Acupuncture can relieve arthritis

One of the most common disorders of the elderly is arthritis. Due to inflammation of the joints, pain and stiffness can occur which typically worsen as a person gets older. Affecting the hands, arms and feet, arthritis can also make it difficult to perform daily tasks and walk comfortably. For those who experience chronic arthritic pain, acupuncture can provide relief. Research has shown that acupuncture can control inflammation, reduce swelling, and ease discomfort.

2. Acupuncture can aid digestion

Another common issue as we age are digestive disorders. Constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, diarrhea, and more can cause discomfort and pain. Acupuncture helps to improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach. It can also nourish other organs leading to a healthier digestive tract.

4. Acupuncture can improve eye conditions

Cataracts and glaucoma are common among seniors, causing blurriness and loss of vision. Acupuncture for the elderly has been shown to be effective in providing relief for eye ailments and disorders. According to a World Health Organization report, acupuncture has been shown to provide relief from eye ailments for the elderly.

5. Acupuncture can help depression and other mental health problems

As we shared in our recent blog, acupuncture can be an effective way to treat depression. Unfortunately, seniors are vulnerable to mental health issues due to loneliness and ailing health. Acupuncture can be a great resource as it promotes relaxation, alleviates stress and improves sleep. And as acupuncture can reduce other conditions such as pain, seniors may note a overall sense of wellbeing.

6. Acupuncture supports the respiratory system

Acute sinusitis, acute rhinitis, acute tonsillitis and common colds are a few conditions that seniors may experience. It has been shown that respiratory diseases can improve or dissipate with the use of acupuncture.

7. Acupuncture can relieve mouth disorders

With age, our teeth and gums may diminish due to many years of use and sometimes neglect. Acupuncture has been shown to treat various mouth disorders including gingivitis, post-extraction pain, toothache, acute and more.

8. Acupuncture can improve Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that one in nine people age 65 and older, have Alzheimer’s disease. However, this number may be even higher as diagnosis is challenging. Unfortunately, cognitive impairment can cause issues of safety and self-care, as well as a loss of connection to family and friends. In a meta-analysis, it was found that acupuncture alone was better than conventional western medicines for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease.

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