If you have a loved one in assisted living, maintaining or improving their physical and mental health is a priority. One way to help them do so is through aromatherapy. Here's how this simple, drug-free technique benefits seniors. 

How Does Aromatherapy Help Residents in Assisted Living?

1. Improves Sleep

Aromatherapy is an effective method of stress management, using scents to increase the body's ability to relax. Aromas trigger the olfactory nerve, enabling the brain to remember and impacting the body's central nervous system. Certain scents and essential oils, such as lavender, ylang-ylang, and lemon balm, trigger calmness and boost memory. 

Aromas can be inhaled as essential oils, massaged into the skin as lotions or creams, or used as a fine mist sprayed on sheets and bedclothes. When your loved one inhales these scents, they should experience relaxation, which helps relieve insomnia, anger, and irritability. It may also enable them to fall asleep more quickly and sleep longer.

2. Lowers Pain Levels

Residents in assisted living communities may cope with pain due to chronic illnesses or physical conditions. Peppermint, lemongrass, and ginger oils are the strongest aromatherapy scents for lowering levels of pain without additional medication. They also improve digestion by reducing constipation and related discomfort.

3. Reduces Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression can lead to challenging behaviors in assisted living residents, including those receiving Alzheimer’s or dementia care. Applying peppermint essential oil on the skin or adding it to bathwater provides a physical and mental energy boost. Rosemary oil and lemon balm also increase energetic behavior, enhance mood, and aid cognitive performance. Ask your medical professional before applying essential oils to your loved one's skin, as some oils can cause negative interactions with medications they take.

If you want an assisted living community where senior care includes aromatherapy, consider Red Cedar Canyon Senior Living. This Hudson, WI, community offers aromatherapy as part of their wellness program. In addition, their commitment to protecting residents' health includes providing residents and visitors with virtual meetings. This allows them to maintain their COVID-19 policy, which restricts visitors to lounge areas. To learn more about their programs, visit the community online. For information about resident activities and visits, call (715) 716-5038.