The Therapeutic Benefits of Rocking Chairs for People with Dementia

Rocking chairs have long been associated with comfort, familiarity, and relaxation. However, growing research shows that they offer far more than a cozy place to sit—particularly for people living with dementia. Studies, including landmark research from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, demonstrate that rocking chair therapy can significantly improve emotional well-being, reduce pain, and enhance balance in nursing home residents with dementia.

These findings suggest that something as simple and familiar as rocking can be a powerful, non-pharmacological tool to improve quality of life.

Releasing Endorphins and Reducing Pain

One of the most compelling benefits of rocking chair use is its effect on the brain. The gentle, rhythmic motion of rocking acts as a mild form of exercise, stimulating the release of endorphins—the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. For individuals with dementia, who often experience agitation, anxiety, or depression, this can result in noticeable improvements in mood and emotional comfort.

Research from the University of Rochester found that residents who rocked regularly reported less pain and discomfort, and many even requested fewer pain medications.

“Nursing home residents who have dementia can literally rock away their anxiety and depression… Patients who rocked the most in a research study even requested less medication to ease their daily aches and pains, and their balance improved.”

This highlights the dual physical and emotional benefits of rocking as a therapeutic intervention.

Easing Emotional Distress and Agitation

As dementia progresses, particularly in the early to middle stages, individuals may experience heightened emotional distress. During this phase, many people retain some awareness of their cognitive decline but have reduced ability to cope, leading to feelings of frustration, anger, anxiety, or sadness.

Rocking chair therapy has been shown to significantly reduce these distressing behaviors. The repetitive, soothing motion mirrors calming techniques used with infants and has a deeply regulating effect on the nervous system.

“During the weeks they rocked, most residents’ psychological and emotional well-being improved,”— Watson, Assistant Professor, University of Rochester School of Nursing

Nursing aides involved in the study observed immediate results:

“The chair served to calm someone down when he or she was emotionally upset. The aide helped the resident to the chair and got them rocking, and it calmed the patient right down.”

In the study, residents rocked between 30 minutes and 2.5 hours per day, five days a week. While not every participant showed improvement, those who rocked the longest experienced the most significant benefits.

“The more they rocked, the better they felt.”

Notably, residents who rocked for more than 80 minutes per day showed measurable reductions in behaviors such as crying, anxiety, tension, and depression—some decreasing by nearly one-third.

Enhancing Balance and Reducing Medication Use

Beyond emotional benefits, rocking chairs also offer important physical advantages. The act of rocking gently engages core muscles and supports postural control, providing a low-impact way to improve balance and coordination—key concerns for older adults.

“Rocking provides a worthwhile, mild form of exercise for these people,” says Watson.“It would be difficult to take every patient for a walk, but residents can rock themselves, and many are happy to do so.”

As agitation and pain decrease, reliance on medications often decreases as well. Residents who rocked the most requested fewer pain medications, reducing potential side effects and contributing to a better overall quality of life.

Supporting Caregivers and Families

The benefits of rocking chair therapy extend beyond the person living with dementia. Nursing staff reported greater job satisfaction and a calmer care environment due to fewer episodes of agitation and distress. Families also expressed relief and happiness knowing their loved ones were more comfortable, content, and emotionally settled.

In an area of care that often relies heavily on medication and complex interventions, the rocking chair stands out as a simple, dignified, and human-centered approach—particularly for individuals with early to mid-stage dementia.

Call-Out Box: Why Rocking Works

Why Rocking Is Therapeutic for Dementia

The gentle, rhythmic motion of rocking:

• Stimulates the release of endorphins (natural mood boosters)

• Provides calming sensory input

• Mimics familiar, soothing movements from earlier life

• Offers a safe, low-impact form of physical activity

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This combination supports both emotional regulation and physical comfort.

References & Further Reading

• Watson, N. M., Wells, T. J., & Cox, C. (1998). Rocking chair therapy for dementia patients: Its effect on psychosocial well-being and balance. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias, 13(6), 296–308.

• University of Rochester. As Elders Rock, Emotional Burden of Dementia Eases. ScienceDaily, May 1, 1998.