249 http://sosains.greenvest.co.id

JURNAL

SOSAINS

JURNAL SOSIAL DAN SAINS

VOLUME 4 NOMOR 3 2024

P-ISSN 2774-7018, E-ISSN 2774-700X

PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION THERAPY TO LOWER

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE IN THE ELDERLY THROUGH

COMMUNITY SERVICE MIDWIFERY LECTURER UNAND

Uliy Iffah, Novi Aulia Driza, Nurul Aminah, Dina Taufia, Henni Fitria

Universitas Andalas

Indonesia

Email: uliyiff[email protected]

Keywords:

Hypertension,

Elderly,

Progressive

Muscle Relaxation

ABSTRACT

Background: Elderly health is an increasingly urgent aspect in today's social dynamics.

With the increasing number of elderly people in the population, healthcare challenges

specific to them are increasingly important to discover.

Purpose: This study aims to analyze Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy to Lower

High Blood Pressure in the Elderly Through Community Service

Method: A series of activities were carried out in several stages, with active

participation from the elderly

Results: The results are in line with previous research that has also shown the

effectiveness of this therapy in lowering blood pressure and relieving stress in the elderly

population. Increased understanding of progressive muscle relaxation therapy is an

important first step in the management of high blood pressure. Participants who better

understand these relaxation techniques can use them as aids to maintain their health in

the long term.

Conclusion: Community service by applying progressive muscle relaxation therapy

has proven its benefits in lowering high blood pressure in the elderly. Increased

understanding of this therapy, decreased blood pressure, and increased feelings of

relaxation are encouraging results

INTRODUCTION

Elderly health is an increasingly urgent aspect in today's social dynamics. With the

increasing number of elderly people in the population, health care challenges specific to

them are increasingly important to discover. One of the main problems often faced by the

elderly is high blood pressure, or hypertension. (National Institute on Aging., 2020).

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health

complications in the elderly (American Heart Association, 2023)

In this context, progressive muscle relaxation therapy is emerging as an attractive

option (Saleh, 2023). This therapy has been found effective in lowering blood pressure and

reducing stress, which are two factors that play a role in the well-being of the elderly.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy to Lower High

Blood Pressure in the Elderly Through Community

Service Midwifery Lecturer Unand

2024

Uliy Iffah, Novi Aulia Driza, Nurul Aminah, Dina Taufia, Henni Fitria

250

Progressive muscle relaxation therapy involves exercises that aim to gradually relax the

muscles of the body, creating a feeling of relaxation and tranquility (Jernigan, A. M., &

Iturbe, 2021)

However, in the context of our community, understanding of the benefits of

progressive muscle relaxation therapy is still limited, and its implementation as a

preventive measure against high blood pressure in the elderly is also not widespread.

Therefore, the presence of progressive muscle relaxation therapy as part of community

service activities becomes very relevant. By filling this research gap, we can make a

significant contribution to improving the quality of life of the elderly in our communities.

In this article, we will explore the concept of progressive muscle relaxation therapy

Wijaya & Nurhidayati, (2020), Highlighting the importance of contributing community

service activities, and setting our main goal in carrying out service activities that focus on

the application of this therapy in order to reduce high blood pressure in the elderly.

RESEARCH METHODS

Location and Series of Activities

This community service activity was carried out at the Lubuk Buaya Health Center,

Koto Tangah District, Padang. A series of activities were carried out in several stages, with

active participation from the elderly.

Materials and Tools

In the implementation of progressive muscle relaxation therapy, we use several

materials and tools, including:

1. Recording Tools

We use sound recording devices to record sessions of progressive muscle

relaxation therapy. This is done so that participants can monitor their own progress

during therapy sessions and as an evaluation tool for continuous improvement.

2. Therapy Room

We provide a special therapy room that is comfortable and quiet, with furniture

that promotes relaxation, such as ergonomic chairs and soft lighting.

3. Audio Equipment

We use audio equipment to play progressive muscle relaxation therapy guides

during sessions. This guide contains step-by-step instructions on how to tighten and

release certain muscles in the body. (Green, B. L., 2019; Williams, B., 2018)

Activity Implementation

Community service activities begin with socialization to the community about the

benefits of progressive muscle relaxation therapy. We organize training sessions for the

elderly and those caring for them to understand the basic techniques of this therapy. After

the training, we hold periodic group therapy sessions.

Volume 4, Nomor 3, Maret 2024

p-ISSN 2774-7018 ; e-ISSN 2774-700X

251 http://sosains.greenvest.co.id

Figure 1 extension activities

The therapy session begins with an audio guide that guides participants to tone and

then release their muscles in the right way. The session is conducted in a calm and attentive

atmosphere.

Figure 2 guides participants to Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy

Data Collection Methods

Data is collected in several ways, among other things (Wekke, 2022):

1. Observations: We observed participants during therapy sessions to note changes in

relaxation levels and blood pressure levels.

2. Interviews: We conduct interviews with participants before and after therapy sessions

to gather information about the changes they feel.

3. Blood Pressure Measurement: The participants' blood pressure was measured before

and after the therapy session with an appropriate device.

Data Processing and Analysis

The collected data is analyzed with the help of statistical software. We used

descriptive statistical methods to analyze changes in blood pressure levels and relaxation

levels before and after therapy sessions. In addition, we also conducted a qualitative

analysis of interviews and observational notes to understand the impact of progressive

muscle relaxation therapy on participants (Vivi Silvia, 2020).

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy to Lower High

Blood Pressure in the Elderly Through Community

Service Midwifery Lecturer Unand

2024

Uliy Iffah, Novi Aulia Driza, Nurul Aminah, Dina Taufia, Henni Fitria

252

With this method, we hope to document the effectiveness of progressive muscle

relaxation therapy in lowering high blood pressure in the elderly and provide a better

understanding of its benefits in elderly health care.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Results of Community Service Activities

In order to carry out community service activities with a focus on the application of

progressive muscle relaxation therapy to reduce high blood pressure in the elderly, we

managed to achieve significant results. These results are discussed in the following key

aspects:

1. Increased Understanding of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy

After training and therapy sessions, participants showed increased understanding

of progressive muscle relaxation therapy. They can identify the muscles they need to

relax and understand their benefits for lowering blood pressure.

2. Blood Pressure Drop

Hasil pengukuran tekanan darah menunjukkan penurunan yang signifikan setelah

peserta mengikuti sesi terapi relaksasi otot progresif. Hal ini mengindikasikan bahwa

terapi ini efektif dalam menurunkan tekanan darah tinggi pada lansia.

3. Increased Feelings of Relaxation and Well-Being

Participants reported feeling more relaxed and comfortable after the therapy

sessions. They also noted improved sleep quality and decreased stress levels.

Discussion

The implementation of progressive muscle relaxation therapy as part of community

service activities has had a positive impact on the elderly in our community. The results

are in line with previous research that has also shown the effectiveness of this therapy in

lowering blood pressure and relieving stress in the elderly population (Hughes, J. W.,

2023).

Increased understanding of progressive muscle relaxation therapy is an important

first step in the management of high blood pressure. Participants who better understand

these relaxation techniques can use them as aids to maintain their health in the long term

(Bress et al., 2017; Karang & Rizal, 2017).

A significant drop in blood pressure is also a very positive result. In a society where

heart disease and stroke are major health problems, tackling high blood pressure is an

important priority (Pal, G. K., & Velkumary, 2018). This therapy opens the door to a more

natural and holistic approach in maintaining the health of the elderly.

Although the results were positive, there are some limitations to note. This activity

is limited by the number of participants involved, and the long-term impact of this therapy

still needs to be studied. In addition, the sustainability of these activities requires ongoing

resources and commitment from the community.

The recommendation for similar community service activities is to expand the scope

to more elderly in the community and involve more volunteers in its implementation

(Wiyasihati, Setiawan, Rejeki, & Irwadi, 2023). In addition, collecting long-term data on

the effects of progressive muscle relaxation therapy on the elderly will help provide a better

understanding of its long-term benefits (Rahayu, Hayati, & Asih, 2020).

Volume 4, Nomor 3, Maret 2024

p-ISSN 2774-7018 ; e-ISSN 2774-700X

253 http://sosains.greenvest.co.id

Figure 3. Documentation of community service activities

CONCLUSION

Community service by applying progressive muscle relaxation therapy has proven

its benefits in lowering high blood pressure in the elderly. Increased understanding of this

therapy, decreased blood pressure, and increased feelings of relaxation are encouraging

results. In an effort to maintain the health of the elderly, progressive muscle relaxation

therapy deserves to be considered as an important part of comprehensive health care.

Through this community service activity, we can conclude that the application of

progressive muscle relaxation therapy has a positive impact in reducing high blood pressure

in the elderly. Participants of the activity managed to increase their understanding of this

therapy and felt significant changes in their level of relaxation and well-being.

Progressive muscle relaxation therapy is a natural and effective approach to

managing high blood pressure in the elderly. This has the potential to reduce the risk of

heart disease, stroke, and other health complications that often pose a serious threat to the

elderly.

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