Essential oils have long been used as natural remedies for health conditions such as stress and sinus problems. Now, it’s understood that essential oils may also be used to reduce and even eliminate certain symptoms of dementia. While these oils are plant-based and all natural, you should always consult your senior loved one’s doctor before trying any new type of treatment. Once you receive the doctor’s approval, you can begin using these seven essential oils with your loved one to enhance his or her wellbeing.
1. Lavender
The soothing scent of lavender is often enough to take seniors back to lovely memories from their past. It also has relaxing properties that may alleviate stress and decrease aggression among seniors with dementia. Lavender oil drops make a lovely addition to a bath before bed because this herb is also known for helping people fall asleep.
As dementia progresses, your loved one will need more assistance with the simple activities of daily living. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of in home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Chamomile
Many people drink chamomile tea for its ability to induce a state of relaxation. This same stress-reducing effect may also calm agitation in seniors with dementia. Encourage your loved one to sniff a few drops of chamomile or rub some of the oil gently on his or her hands when exhibiting disruptive behavior.
3. Clary Sage
For seniors who aren’t fond of the scent of lavender, clary sage provides a great alternative. Similar to lavender, it also generates a sense of calm that allows seniors to escape from their worries. It also gently stimulates the mind so they can retain new memories.
Dementia Care Columbus caregivers can help seniors maintain focus by creating a calm environment, and they can also help family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Columbus families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their aging loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
4. Peppermint
The invigorating scent of peppermint oil is hard to miss, and this is a great way to help your loved one focus on a task. Peppermint also soothes the sinuses and stimulates digestion. To encourage better focus, use this oil before working with your loved one on an activity he or she finds challenging.
5. Ylang Ylang
Many seniors with dementia experience restlessness during the night that affects their behavior during the day. You can give your loved one’s bedtime a better send-off by rubbing this essential oil on his or her skin or putting it into bath water. Since it also alleviates depression, it has daytime benefits as well.
6. Bergamot
Spray a few drops of this oil on your loved one’s clothes to alleviate anxiety. Bergamot may be effective for reducing agitation, so use a few drops to help your loved one stay calm before you take him or her out to crowded places.
7. Lemon Oil
Citrus scents work well for calming seniors with dementia while increasing their ability to pay attention to tasks. Lemon balm is mildly scented, and it may be used along with other essential oils to enhance the effects. This oil can be inhaled directly, and many caregivers also use a diffuser to lightly scent entire rooms.
Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving around-the-clock senior home care. Columbus, OH, Assisting Hands Home Care are leaders in the senior in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 614-678-5887 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.
