Flint Hospital Gives Senior Patients Makeovers, Massages To Boost Recovery

Hurley Medical Center in Flint, Michigan is using makeovers, massage therapy and medicine to treat their elderly patients. And the results have been nothing short of miraculous.

Thanks to a new program, over 100 seniors had a brighter hospital stay after a day of pampering, made possible by a $5,000 grant to bring cosmetology services to seniors there.

Staff say the treatments can ease anxiety and boost morale in their elderly patients. "Well, it's scary for anybody to be in the hospital and the power of physical touch and the power just to feel good and have that control over how you feel and how you look,” Cathy Metz, geriatric service line administrator told WNEM-TV. “Well, that's just one more part of your care and your recovery.”

Thanks to the grant, close to 200 patients can get haircuts and styles, as well as massage therapy services. Metz says that helps keep patients alert and active and it stimulates their minds. “When my hair’s not done,” one patient says, “I don’t even want anyone to come into my room.” And we can all relate to that! Looking good makes you feel good, and then you’re ready to face the world and get better.