“Holistic,” “complementary,” “Eastern,” and “alternative medicine” all represent a general shift in our thinking away from traditional Western medicine. They have existed as long as humans have. Western society’s new way of life has taken control of most markets, and the medical field is no different. Gone are the days that taking such a stance on life are scoffed at. As more and more scientific studies come out, the conclusion confirms that complementary, alternative, or holistic medical treatments do in fact help. All one has to do is look at the latest trend yoga, which was traditionally practiced by flower girls. Now yoga is widely practiced by both men and women, and has proven to enhance the lives of its practitioners. Some big changes in our health repertoire have heightened the need for alternative medicine. People are becoming aware of the importance of holistic approaches for their own personal health. This includes eating right, exercising, cutting vices, and caring about our environment, including what we put into our bodies. Many people have awakened to the fact that our ancestors had a lot of correct practices and traditions. With the spread of knowledge and influence, many of the remedies and cultural ways of life that had been forgotten or adamantly detested, are now being rejuvenated. Many people are alarmed at the direction in which our health care system is going. Antibiotics are becoming impotent; painkillers and opioids are overprescribed and abused; surgeries and chemotherapy sometimes do more harm than good. People are now recognizing the benefits of alternative methods, because they are often cheaper, drug-free, and, to some, even spiritual.
Acupuncture is no different. It is no longer seen as a pseudo-science, especially for senior citizens seeking an alternative to traditional Western Medicine. For example, acupuncture can help older adults with irritable bowel syndrome and other stomach related issues. It is also suggested for chronic pain and bodily aches. Others claim it helps to balance their energies or chi, and helps to strengthen their immune system. Many suggest it to help treat depression, anxiety, and other emotional and mental disorders. It is also applicable for many seniors suffering from Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological problems, as well as victims of strokes. Seniors also use it to help treat eye disorders such as cataracts or retina myopia. Seniors frequently receive acupuncture to help with gum and teeth problems such as gingivitis, toothaches, and temporomandibular joint disorders. Many seniors in Jacksonville use a wheelchair ramp or stair lift and know the burden of having to use mobility equipment every single day. Although acupuncture cannot cure severe spinal injuries, seniors use acupuncture to manage arthritis in their extremities and back, which can help get them out of that cumbersome wheelchair.
With the advent and spread of the Internet, more and more information is available for the average layperson such as you and me. We are now able to easily find information on practically any topic, along with multiple sources and viewpoints. Now we-as-consumers can come to our own conclusions, without having to go through specialists hiding behind esoteric jargon. Since more information has been available, Americans have been embracing more and more holistic approaches towards their health. Some studies suggest one out of three Americans practices some form of holistic health care. This usually comes in the form of taking supplements, practicing yoga, or receiving acupuncture or chiropractic care. Many doctors are also hopping aboard the holistic train, and are prescribing preventative measures and alternatives to drugs more and more. No one is claiming we should stop using Western medicine, as it has proven its worth, time and time again. But a shift in the paradigm to including more holistic methods in caring for our health has already begun, and we at Senior Directory suspect it will only continue to grow.
Article written by Nick Schaller with Senior Directory, LLC
