Pacific College Celebrates Senior Health & Fitness Day With Free Treatments

San Diego , CA - National Senior Health and Fitness Day celebrated on May 25, provides seniors with the opportunity to take advantage of numerous health programs made available to them in order to encourage health awareness. Acupuncture can be extremely beneficial in providing relief for aliments endured by the elderly community. In order to service the senior community on this day, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine is offering a free acupuncture treatment to first time patients, on a space available basis.

According to a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services survey, there were 34.5 million people over the age of 65 in 1999, representing about 12.7 percent of the U.S. population. By 2030, that number will grow to 20 percent, or about 70 million people. Yet as large as it is, the elderly population experiences an alarming number of health problems that are often inadequately treated, such as arthritis, depression, pain, constipation, stress and loneliness.

The suicide rate among people over 65 is higher than any other group, and is considered a major public health problem by the National Institute of Mental Health. Yet a case study conducted by a nurse consultant for Beverly Health and Rehabilitation Services, Inc. in 2003 found that seniors who received massage therapy experienced a tremendous improvement in mood and anxiety levels.

Oriental medicine and acupuncture can help with all of these ailments, through an increase the circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids, reduce muscular tension, relieve pain, and release endorphins. Improved circulation brings fresh oxygen to body tissues, which eliminates waste products from inside the body and enhances recovery from diseases. And the bond that can be forged between practitioner and patient can serve to relieve loneliness and depression.

For more information on how Oriental medicine can help the elderly, or for an appointment please call Pacific College at (619) 574-6932.

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