Rocking chairs have long been associated with comfort and relaxation, but studies have shown that they offer much more than just a cozy place to sit, especially for individuals living with dementia. Research conducted by the University of Rochester's School of Nursing has highlighted the significant therapeutic benefits of rocking chair use for nursing home residents with advanced dementia. These findings suggest that the simple act of rocking can be a powerful tool in improving the quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.
Releasing Endorphins and Reducing Pain
One of the key benefits identified by the University of Rochester's study is that the mild, rhythmic exercise of rocking can trigger the release of endorphins—natural chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of happiness and well-being. For individuals with dementia, who often experience periods of agitation, anxiety, and distress, this release of endorphins can lead to noticeable improvements in mood. Additionally, the gentle motion of rocking has been found to help reduce pain, providing a soothing effect that can enhance overall comfort.
"Nursing home residents who have dementia can literally rock away their anxiety and depression, nurse researchers have found, simply by rocking back and forth in a rocking chair for about an hour or two a day. Patients who rocked the most in a research study even requested less medication to ease their daily aches and pains, and their balance improved." Link to article
Easing Emotional Distress and Agitation
As dementia progresses, individuals often experience acute episodes of emotional distress, particularly during the middle stages of the disease. This is a period when they may still be somewhat aware of their cognitive decline but are less able to manage or compensate for it, leading to feelings of sorrow, anger, and frustration. The research at the University of Rochester suggests that rocking chair therapy can significantly alleviate these distressing symptoms. The repetitive, gentle motion of rocking seems to have a calming effect similar to what is observed in infants, helping to ease agitation and emotional turmoil in older adults.
"During the weeks they rocked, most residents' psychological and emotional well-being improved", says Watson, an assistant professor in the University's School of Nursing and an expert in gerontological nursing research, an area where the University is ranked among the top 10 nationwide.
"Right away, nursing aides noticed the most dramatic effect: The chair served to calm someone down when he or she was emotionally upset. The aide helped the resident to the chair and got them rocking, and it calmed the patient right down."
"In the study, residents rocked for anywhere from half an hour to two and a half hours each day for five days a week. While not all the residents improved, those who rocked the most improved the most, Watson says. "The more they rocked, the better they felt."
"Behaviors like crying or expressions of anxiety, tension, and depression dropped in the 11 patients who rocked more than 80 minutes a day. Such behaviors fell anywhere from slightly to almost one-third.
Several patients also requested less pain medication during weeks they rocked, Watson says; generally, those who rocked the most asked for pain medication less often, ranging from a very slight reduction to two or three fewer requests per week. Patients who rocked less asked for at least as much pain medication, and sometimes more." Link to article
Enhancing Balance and Reducing Medication Use
Beyond the psychological benefits, rocking chairs also offer physical advantages. The act of rocking engages various muscle groups, providing a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve balance and coordination. This is particularly valuable for older adults, who may struggle with maintaining their physical stability. As a result of the calming effects of rocking, many individuals also require less medication to manage their symptoms, which can lead to fewer side effects and a better overall quality of life.
"Rocking provides a worthwhile, mild form of exercise for these people," says Watson. "It would be difficult to take every patient for a walk, for instance, but residents can rock themselves, and many are happy to do so, given a little encouragement. This is an easy step to improve the quality of life for people in nursing homes." Link to article
Improving the Well-Being of Caregivers and Families
The benefits of rocking chair therapy extend beyond the individuals with dementia. Nursing home staff have reported greater job satisfaction and a more positive work environment when residents regularly use rocking chairs. This is likely due to the reduced need for interventions to manage agitation and distress. Additionally, families of individuals with dementia have expressed increased happiness and relief, knowing that their loved ones are more content and comfortable.
In a world where dementia care often focuses on medications and complex interventions, the humble rocking chair offers a gentle yet powerful alternative for early to mid onset dementia.
Wentworth Care Furniture is delighted to include the Roki Rocker in our collection of furniture for the elderly. We do not recommend the Roki rocking chair for those with advanced dementia.
Please contact us for to organise a trial, or for pricing, lead time and fabric information on 03 9408 9710 or email us at info@wentworthcare.com.au.
Links to articles:
Watson, N. M., Wells, T. J., & Cox, C. (1998). Rocking chair therapy for dementia patients: Its effect on psychosocial well-being and balance. American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias, 13(6), 296-308. https://doi.org/10.1177/153331759801300605
University Of Rochester. "As Elders Rock, Emotional Burden Of Dementia Eases." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 1 May 1998. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/1998/05/980501083053.htm>.
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