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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.