Benefits of Massage Therapy for the Elderly: A Systematic Review from Physical and Mental Health Perspectives

The global elderly population faces increasing physical and psychological health challenges, necessitating non-pharmacological interventions to improve quality of life. Massage therapy, as a non-invasive complementary approach, has been proposed to address pain, mobility limitations, immune decline, anxiety, and depression in the elderly. This systematic review aims to synthesize the latest evidence (2020–2025) on the benefits of massage therapy for the physical and mental health of individuals aged ≥60 years. Following the PRISMA guidelines and using the PICO framework, a comprehensive search of the Scopus database identified 51 articles, with six articles meeting the inclusion criteria after screening and eligibility assessment. The included studies comprised randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and cross-sectional surveys, encompassing modalities such as thermal spinal massage, aromatherapy massage, and individual physical therapy interventions. Results consistently demonstrated significant physiological benefits, including pain reduction, improved mobility, enhanced immune function, and resolution of functional constipation, alongside psychological improvements such as reduced anxiety, depression, agitation, and improved quality of life. Notably, high compliance rates and the absence of serious adverse effects were reported across interventions, underscoring their safety and feasibility in the geriatric population. Massage therapy utilization was more common among women, those with higher education, private health insurance, and musculoskeletal conditions. However, protocol heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and limited long-term follow-up highlight the need for rigorous and standardized trials. Overall, the evidence supports the integration of massage therapy into comprehensive geriatric care as an effective adjunct for optimizing physical and mental health, while emphasizing the importance of appropriate methodology.