A Study To Assess The Effectiveness Of Foot Reflexology On The Level Of Depression Among Elderly Persons In Selected Old Age Homes, Dharmapuri

Abstract

Aging is a biological process and experienced by the mankind in all times. It refers to a sequence of changes across a life span of individual Though aging is a multidimensional process, it is the closing period of the life of an individual. It is a period when people move away from their more desirable period or times of "usefulness."

 Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving the physical act of applying pressure to the feet, hands, or ears with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on what reflexologists claim to be a system of zones and reflex areas that they say reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body. Reflexologists divide the body into ten equal vertical zones, five on the right and five on the left. It is based on the principle that the foot, divided in reflex zones, is a mirror image of the body. Each reflex zone corresponds to a part of the body. Specific manipulation and pressure of these zones reduce and eliminate blockages in corresponding glands, organs, and other parts of the body.