The Alaska Palliative Massage Initiative (AKPMI) brings compassionate, skilled massage therapy directly to Alaskans who need it most. We support seniors, individuals at the end of life, and those living with complex medical conditions, as well as the loved ones and caregivers who care for them. By addressing physical discomfort, emotional isolation, and touch deprivation, we create moments of comfort, restore dignity, and foster connection, offering holistic support that nurtures both body and spirit.

  • Geriatric massage therapy is a specialized form of massage tailored to the unique needs of seniors. It focuses on improving circulation, reducing pain, easing stiffness, and promoting relaxation, all while considering the physical limitations and health conditions common in aging. Techniques are gentle, slow, and adaptable, often incorporating light pressure, stretching, and joint mobilization to enhance mobility and overall well-being. This therapeutic approach not only addresses physical discomfort but also provides emotional comfort, helping seniors maintain a higher quality of life and fostering a sense of connection and care.

  • Palliative massage is a gentle, specialized form of massage therapy designed to provide comfort and support to individuals facing chronic illnesses, advanced age, or end-of-life transitions. Unlike traditional massage, which often focuses on deep tissue manipulation or therapeutic goals, palliative massage prioritizes relaxation, relief from discomfort, and emotional well-being.

  • Hospice massage is a specialized form of therapeutic touch designed to bring comfort, ease, and emotional support to individuals in hospice care. Focused on gentle, non-invasive techniques, it helps alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, and promote connection and relaxation during the end-of-life journey. Hospice massage is highly adaptable, meeting the individual right where they are and can be provided wherever the person is most comfortable. .

  • Geriatric, palliative and hospice massage is provided in the setting where the client feels most at ease. I travel to private homes, assisted living facilities, or other care environments to offer treatment, ensuring comfort and continuity of care.

  • Geriatric, palliative and Hospice massage is highly adaptable and is provided wherever the client is most comfortable, whether in a bed, wheelchair, or recliner. These types of massage are often performed while the client is fully clothed. There is no need to expend all of that extra effort to benefit from massage therapy.

  • In home hospice & palliative massage starts at $150 per 90 minute visit.

    Giving Back:
    $50 of every individual service goes directly to AKPMI’s Care Fund. This fund provides sessions at no cost to families who could not otherwise afford them. When you schedule care, you’re also ensuring that another Alaskan family experiences dignity, comfort, and relief.

    Please reach out if you need access to a sliding scale or to sign up to receive care via the care fund.

  • While some insurance companies will reimburse for massage, currently Medicare does not.

Research has shown that massage can effectively reduce anxiety and depression, offering profound benefits during challenging times. In a time of life where touch is often clinical, impersonal, or even distressing, massage provides a unique opportunity to create moments of peace, comfort, and connection for clients and their families during aging, medical, and end-of-life care. With individualized and flexible care plans, each session is thoughtfully tailored to meet the client’s needs in the present moment, meeting them where they are.