Experience -
Hi, my name is Nancy Moorshead. I am a Geriatric Massage Therapist, meaning I provide clothed massage to Seniors in their own homes and facilities. I work with people who have limited mobility or who simply find it easier not to travel. The areas I primarily visit are Essex County and Bergen County, NJ.
As a family caregiver for 12 years I understand the experience of dealing with unpredictable and unexpected situations. I view everyone I visit as friend, I listen to them, and completely accept how they are at this moment. I support comfort.
I work if you sit clothed in a chair or wheelchair, or are lying in a gown on a bed. I still can relieve sore backs, legs, your neck, your hands, any area you want me to focus on. If your skin is dry I use a lotion. You immediately enjoy the pain-free approach, and usually a sense of peace and feeling wonderful stays much longer.
I have lots of training in medical massage and I deal with all types of conditions, from chronic illness to late stage dementia. I often work with patients who are healing from fractures and undergoing treatments or have impaired cognition and memory. I try to coordinate with any health care team available. My touch is gentle and respectful for fragile skin. I can relieve painful joints, tight muscles, and swelling. I understand how to work with joint implants, ports, patches, cannulas and other medical devices.
I have advanced training for dealing with patients with Dementia, specifically nonverbal Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and I approach carefully them to encourage trust and recognition. I know the Painad scale and adapt my techniques to different levels of pain and mobility.
When there is anxiety, depression, or agitation I invite a sense of safety with long flowing strokes, sandbagging (holding full palm contact), Neurovascular Points, Acupressure points, Reflexology, and the M Technique (a simple repetitive arm/hand stroke).
I have seen the benefit of massage personally. Muscles melt under my fingers. Fingers loosen up. I see breathing deepen with relaxation. My Parkinson's clients (usually very silent) suddenly say "It feels wonderful" Stressed out caregivers say "That's the first rest I've had in months." Clients in wheelchairs say "That felt so good on my back and legs!" Nonverbal patients pull my hand close, or finally close their eyes. People with brain fog and exhaustion suddenly answer questions and respond clearly. People who were in pain tell me that even if the pain is not gone, at least they feel better. They find it easier to move, to walk, to put on clothing, to remember.
My favorite clients are patients and caregivers who open up to a bigger brighter world. I love seeing them relax in peace and enjoy life, even if it's just for a moment. Snores and smiles are high compliments of trust to me!
Graduated -
Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences New York, NY (Massage Therapy Program)
Advanced Training -
ABMP - Associated Bodyworkers and Massage Professionals (Massage for Trauma, Cancer, Eldercare, Hospital Based Patients)
AMTA - American Massage Association (Dementia and Massage, Caring for Grieving Clients, Massage for Anxiety, Massage and Stress)
Center for Pain Management (Orthopedic Massage)
Daybreak Geriatric Massage Institute (Massage for Dementia, Diabetes, Parkinson's, Stroke Recovery, Long Term Illness)
Final Touch Training (Palliative Massage, M Technique)
International Institute of Reflexology (Foot and Hand Reflexology)
International School of Shiatsu (Acupressure Points, TCM, Five Element Theory, Traditional Floor Shiatsu)
Current -
Registered Business Owner - Oaktree Touch LLC
N J Massage License #18KT01386700
NY Massage License # 0011900
CPR Certificate