Reiki in Dementia Care: Practice and Perceptions

Dementia is a degenerative condition that impairs the physical and mental functioning of the brain, resulting in multiple cognitive deficits. There is currently no cure and the incidence of dementia is increasing as the population ages. Failure to adequately manage challenging behaviours caused by dementia, significantly reduces the quality of life of the individuals with dementia and their carers. This landmark work examines issues relating to dementia, complementary therapies, energy healing, Usui Reiki, and the use of Reiki in dementia care. It demonstrates that Reiki is an easy to learn and easy to use holistic complementary therapy which has the potential to enhance the quality of life of persons with dementia, their family members, and carers. Reported benefits include improved physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing as well as enhanced quality of life and a reduction in negative behaviours following the use of Reiki. This book is a valuable resource for professional carers and volunteers wishing to introduce Reiki into the care of people with dementia.