Touch can often be a powerful element for people confronting the end of life and can help to alleviate stress that the person who is ill might be experiencing, create calm, and increase comfort.

Massage for hospice patients employs a slower, gentler, technique. When massage is applied in hospice, the techniques are directed towards reduction of pain and relief from stress. Massage can be administered while the person is in bed or sitting/reclining in a chair, and fully clothed. Some techniques can be taught to family members and/or caregivers. Treatments are provided by Circle of Caring at Hospice of the Good Shepherd volunteers who are licensed massage therapists.

For more information about the Hospice’s massage program, or any of the Integrative Therapies programs, please call the Hospice office at 617.969.6130 or

Circle of Caring at Hospice of the Good Shepherd is a 501 © 3 non-profit organization.
Our Federal Tax ID number is 04-2655734. Donations are fully deductible to the extent permitted by IRS guidelines.