Caregiving for the person with dementia can be very stressful, so caregivers need to take steps to refill their well and care for themselves mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. There are simple, holistic methods for caregivers to care for themselves, and these methods can also be used with the person with Alzheimer's or other form of dementia. Research on holistic health care continues to demonstrate its many benefits for natural health, prevention, and wellness. This is article two of three sharing 3 holistic tips for Alzheimer's caregivers to cope and stay well.
3 Holistic Tips for Alzheimer's Caregivers to Cope and Stay Well:
Tip 2 - Aromatherapy to Help Caregivers and People with Alzheimer's
A research study with people with dementia showed that lavender, geranium, and mandarin put into almond carrier oil, increased alertness, contentment, sleeping at night, reduced agitation, withdrawal, and wandering. Another showed other essential oils such as ylang ylang helped to decrease disturbing behaviors. These people were then prescribed fewer medications. People with dementia may have less sense of smell, but can still benefit from it being applied topically to to their skin. (Source: Aromatherapy for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease)
There is a beautiful array of essential oils to choose from. They can be applied to the skin. Be sure to use just a few drops mixed in a base oil or lotion and test a small area to make sure there is no reaction. Diffusers are a great way to get the scent into the air or simply opening a bottling and enjoying the scent can be enough to give you the therapeutic benefits. Listen to and pay attention to how you and your loved on react in body, mind, and spirit to each essential oil.
7 Essential Oils that Can Be Relaxing and Calming for Caregivers and People with Dementia
- Lavender
- Orange
- Chamomile
- Yling Ylang
- Cedarwood
- Sandalwood
- Rose
7 Essential Oils that Can Be Energizing, Improve Alertness, or Lift Fatigue for Dementia Caregivers and Patients
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Juniper
- Ginger
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lime
With
the popularity of essential oils increasing as well as more people using
pharmaceuticals, you want to be sure to avoid cases of drug interactions. You might consult with your physician and this article on aromatherapy safety when used with medications.
Stay tuned for an article with holistic health stress management Tip 3, music. And please share if this information helps you or if you have caregiver self-care tips that you find helpful.
Read Tip 1 - Rest, Relaxation, and Stress Management
Read Tip 3 - The Benefits of Music
This information is a resource for educational and informational purposes. It provides general health information related to Holistic Health Care. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice or for specific conditions. If you have, or suspect you may have a health condition you should consult a health care provider or consider consulting with a Holistic OT.
Emmy Vadnais, OTR/L is a Holistic Occupational Therapist, Intuitive Healer, teacher,
writer, and consultant. For close to 20 year she has been studying and practicing Holistic Health& Wellness care, and has received certifications in many holistic healing modalities. She co-writes for the “Light on Holistic OT Column” in ADVANCE Magazine highlighting new research and demonstrating the power of Mind, Body, Spirit Medicine, Prevention, and Wellness. She teaches Holistic Healing classes to Health Care Professionals and coaches them on how to incorporate these approaches into their practice. She is in private practice in St. Paul, MN helping her clients and students learn strategies that assist them to transform pain and anxiety to peace and joy. Please visit her websites at www.emmyvadnais.com and HolisticOT.org. 
