Do Essential Oils Really Work for Senior Health?
Essential oils can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood when used appropriately. Some essential oils may also have antimicrobial properties and can be used for aromatherapy, massage, or topical applications, such as soothing sore muscles or promoting better sleep. If your loved one has senior home care, they can help them bathe with essential oils by dropping it into their bath water or adding it to a senior’s daily moisturizer. If your loved one has dementia, sometimes certain smells may help them by boosting their memory or giving them feelings of happiness when a certain smell is presented to them. Here are a few of the best essential oils that your loved one may like.
Rosemary Essential Oils
Many seniors love the smell of rosemary because it brings back memories of being in the garden or cooking a meal with their families. It is a traditional scent that may bring back fond memories for your loved one. Rosemary oil also contains a compound called carnosic, which will help a senior protect their brains from further neurological damage. This essential oil can be inhaled, sprayed, or diffused throughout the home.
Lemon Balm
Lemon has many uses, and it smells amazing. Lemon is a food well-known disinfectant, but it is also an amazing essential oil for seniors with dementia. Lemon essential oil has a prominent calming effect that can help your senior feel grounded throughout the day, and it may help relieve your senior of anxiety or insomnia. If your senior doesn’t like a spray around the house, they may try rubbing it on their skin to smell it wherever they go.
Peppermint Oil
This is a very popular essential oil that usually pops into your head right away when you think of oils. There is a reason for that! Peppermint is a very stimulating smell that helps energize a person and keeps them awake. It works best in the morning, and if a senior likes to take a bath in the morning, senior home care can add a few drops to the water or drop a small amount on the floor while a senior takes a shower.
Lavender for Seniors
Now this is a super popular essential oil, but not all seniors can handle the smell. If your senior loved one is allergic to lavender or doesn’t like the scent, it’s best to avoid it. It is one of the most popular essential oils, but it is also an acquired taste; many people don’t like the smell of lavender. However, this essential oil is great for people who need to find balance in their emotions; it can be good for reducing anger, irritation, and depression.
When you start experimenting with essential oils, it is important to note how your senior responds to different smells. Before buying a bunch of random scents, ask your loved one what their favorite smells already are. For example, if your loved one says they love the smell of limes, they may prefer a citrusy lemon scent over a lavender scent. Pay attention to what your loved one says and find the best options for them. Caregiving always requires attention to detail, and this is something senior home care thrives in.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care in Amagansett, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at (631) 685-5001
