You know that feeling when a person says something so thoughtful, so amazing that it changes the direction you were working in, the path you just knew was right? Well, that happened recently when interviewing Dr. Joi Edwards for The ABMP Podcast (Episode 298, “Functional Therapy for the Geriatric Population”). Dr. Joi is a cupping expert and massage therapist—in addition to being a physical therapist—which makes for a uniquely powerful combination. 

Before the podcast, I certainly had a preconceived notion of what I thought we’d talk about: her past working with athletes, her recent exploration into cadaver training, and cupping with active movement. Those were all well and good, but then Dr. Joi told my co-host Kristin Coverly and me about her work with the geriatric community. This was valuable because we had not discussed this topic yet on the podcast and because, coincidentally, working with the elderly was already the theme of this issue of Massage & Bodywork magazine, which was well into production. Dr. Joi was excited to talk about how she had recently shifted the primary benefactors of her work to a geriatric clientele, and it had made all the difference for her personally and professionally. 

But then came the kicker: Dr. Joi spoke about working with clients who have dementia. A light bulb went on. Even though we’d written about working with the elderly in this publication before, we’d never specifically focused on clients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in a feature article. Suddenly, we had a new mission. 

During the podcast interview, I asked Dr. Joi if working with this population brought about a new challenge: clientele who may not remember that you had worked together afterward. Her answer was beautifully concise: massage is about intention and presence. With this audience, you may be the bright spot in their day. You may be the only caring touch they receive. And you may be a godsend to families who aren’t able to provide therapeutic support in this manner.  

In this issue, you’ll find Karrie Osborn’s feature article “When All is Forgotten” (page 32). It serves as a reminder of how your work is valued by so many populations. And that massage creates connections far beyond communication. This is partnered with Anne Williams’s “Gentle Aromatherapy for Elderly Clients” (page 38). 

Dr. Joi’s father and my father both have dementia. It’s so powerful to think that hands-on treatment can be a salve for them and bring connection and relief. Your work is valued and cherished by so many individuals, no matter where and when you interact with them on life’s path. We hope you enjoy this issue. 

Welcome New Authors

We’re excited to introduce two new columns to Massage & Bodywork magazine. Check out Nicole Trombley and Rachelle Clauson’s Anatomy for Touch and David Lesondak’s Body of Wonder, both deep dives into the science of our work and the value of critical thinking.

Darren Buford

Editor-in-Chief 

darren@abmp.com