Hydrotherapy, SPA, Balneotherapy, Thalassotherapy

Abstract

Hydrotherapy is use of water in form of liquid, ice and vapor as hot or cold applications for prevention of health and treatment of diseases. Balneotherapy is the treatment modality which uses mineral and thermal waters (healing waters), peloid (healing muds) and gases in forms of bathing, drinking and inhalation. In SPA concept, a variety of applications with tap water and SPA products such as mud, seaweed and mineral salts are involved. Hydrotherapy, balneotherapy and thalassotherapy in elderly can be considered from three different aspects; firstly, because of their antiaging effects. That is, their Preventive effects on the biologic and physiologic processes that develops in elderly or therapeutic effects on the pathological consequences. Secondly, they might be effective in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of the diseases that occurs frequently in elderly. Thirdly, they may complement and support other treatment modalities for elder population. SPA usage is mainly associated with cosmetic aspects, aiming esthetic, beauty and wellness.