How Aromatherapy Can Help Your Senior Loved One
Aromatherapy can be used in many ways for a diverse group of people. While there are many benefits of aromatherapy for younger adults, seniors may benefit the most from aromatherapy when it is done properly. Aromatherapy is the use of highly concentrated molecules from things such as flowers, plants, seeds, etc. to bring healing or peace to an individual. For seniors, aromatherapy can serve as a way to relax, a way to feel comfortable or a way to reduce anxiety or stress.
Aromatherapy should be treated the same way as another over the counter medication and the doctor of your loved one should be consulted before you introduce the oils into your loved one’s life. This is because the oils may affect your loved one in ways that you may not be aware of or they may interfere with other medications that your loved one is taking. It is best to present your loved one’s doctor with the aromatherapy solution and explain to them why you think that they will benefit from it, what you will do to make sure it is executed properly and what the next steps are.
One you are given the go-ahead from your doctor or your loved one’s doctor, it is time to explore the scents of aromatherapy and how you want to participate. Some people opt to use a diffuser, where the scent will be dispersed into the air. Others prefer to use the essential oils on their skin and wear the oils all day. Whichever execution you choose, you will have to choose your scent as well. It is important to establish your goals with aromatherapy and communicate that with the retailer in which you are buying the oils from. For example, those who are suffering from headaches or stress may opt for scents like lavender and rosemary. Whereas, if you feel as though you or your loved one needs a boost of energy, something citrus (such as orange or lemon scents) could be something that will be beneficial. Additionally, if the goal of aromatherapy is to feel at ease, at home and warm there may be scents such as ginger, cinnamon or nutmeg, that will allow you to feel at home and at ease.
It is important that you listen to your body or your loved one’s body during aromatherapy. If they are not in the mood to experience aromatherapy one day, try not to push it. It is also important to note that it is imperative to know when the scent is too strong, as that can cause headaches and discomfort for them as well. Aromatherapy can be incredibly soothing, healing and beneficial for individuals that are willing to participate. We hope that these helpful hints will allow you to start your aromatherapy journey with ease and confidence.