Aromatherapy is a simple and effective way of promoting well-being in seniors. Here are some aromatherapy blends to soothe a variety of different conditions.
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Aromatherapy is a simple and effective way of promoting well-being in seniors.

Always consult with clinical staff before using aromatherapy as some essential oils may interact with medications. Read More: Aromatherapy for the Elderly

Here are some aromatherapy blends to soothe a variety of different conditions.

Confusion & Disorientation

  • 400mls of Carrier oil
  • 20 drops of Bergamot
  • 20 drops of Geranium
  • 20 drops of Ginger
  • 20 drops of Lavender

Impatience & Irritability

  • 400mls of Carrier oil
  • 30 drops of Chamomile
  • 20 drops of Ylang-ylang
  • 20 drops of Cypress

Fear & Paranoia

  • 400mls of Carrier oil
  • 20 drops of Basil
  • 20 drops of Cedarwood
  • 20 drops of Lemon

Apathy & Exhaustion

  • 400mls of base oil
  • 30 drops of Peppermint
  • 20 drops of Bergamot
  • 20 drops of Orange
  • 20 drops of Black Pepper

Respiratory Difficulties – Coughs & Congestion

  • 400mls of Carrier oil
  • 20 drops of Cypress
  • 30 drops of Eucalyptus
  • 30 drops of Pine oil

Relaxation Blend:

  • 400mls of Carrier oil
  • 20 drops of Lavender
  • 20 drops of Sandalwood
  • 20 drops of Geranium

Aches & Muscle Pain

  • 400mls of Carrier oil
  • 20 drops of Lemongrass
  • 20 drops of Ylang-Ylang
  • 10 drops of Pepper.

Insomnia

  • 400mls Carrier oil
  • 20 drops of Chamomile
  • 20 drops of Clarysage
  • 10 drops of Bergamot.

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Brenda 31st Jan 2017 OTA
There are some great ideas on here guys, thank you I can see myself using these ideas a lot, Bren x
Regis Cypress Gardens 20th Feb 2015 Lifestyle Team
Hi all.
Were are allowed to gently massage with sorbelene creams etc.
we are not allowed to put oils directly onto the skin so I like mixing oils with water in a spray bottle.
Only make what you will use in one session .
WENDY 18th Jan 2014 DIV. THERAPIST
Another idea for people with a poor appetite. Use a few drops of Citrus sinensis (Orange) essential oil, It helps with lymphatic congestion, digestion, acne and is a mood enhancer. I wet facecloths in a bowl of warm water, wring them out and add a couple of drops of the oil to each cloth as I give them to each person, before their main meal. Encourage them to inhale the scent before washing their face and hands with the cloth. You need to do this for about 4 weeks before you notice the benefits. Also, be conscious of the temperature of the face cloths that you are distributing; the person with dementia may have lost their capacity to recognize when something too hot.
Dianne 22nd Oct 2012 Recreational Activities Officer
If your facility does not allow touch( Massage) try making sprays for pillows etc and room sprays with essential oils
Maria 14th Jul 2012
it is unfortunatly that the ACF I work with everything has to b just "sorbolene" related...Facial or a footspa...
Joe 29th Dec 2011 Recreation Therapist
Hi guys I hope you and your families had a great Xmas and I wish you all a great 2012.
My name is Joe an RAO and just started Aroma therapy in the dementia Houses .I have been using an oil that was given to meand I can see the calming effect it has on my residents so I would like to try the above combinations you posted only I don't know where to get the various oils ,also I was told that you need different oils for different seasons I would appreciate the more info that you can provide me with .I am a man I also always felt it was a ladies domain ( Aroma therapy and hand massage) I am sorry I never started it earlier and I encourage everybody to give it a go ,By the way you guys have been a great help and support to the aged care industry I have been with you for a couple of years and will be staying for life Thank you.
Solange 29th Dec 2011 Diversional Therapist
Hi Joe, Thank you for the positive feedback. I have been buying base oil and essential oils from a Brisbane company called 'Ahimsa'. http://www.ahimsaoils.com.au/ I am satisfied with their products. However there are various companies selling online, have a good look on Google. I understand your concern about being a man in a 'ladies domain' but good on you - I'm sure the residents appreciate and enjoy what you bring to the role. The type of carrier or base oil to buy depends on your budget. If it is tight you may use Sunflower oil and if not, Sweet Almond or Apricot kernel are good ones. Regarding 'seasonal' oils; I haven't heard of it as yet. A Hint: don't forget to offer shoulder and neck massages. These are areas where most people have some kind of stiffness. Be very gentle and consult your senior health provider before undertaking it. Good Luck! Cheers, Solange
Kathryn 21st Jun 2011 Diversional therapist
Can you give a quick explanation of how to apply the use of these oils. thanks
Solange 4th Jul 2011 Diversional Therapist
Hi Kathryn,look into 'How to Start an Aromatherapy Program' in the website for guidance.
Christine 13th Oct 2010 Student
Hi Solange
I am studying Cert IV Leisure & Health and doing my work placement at a day respite centre. I am amazed at the rigidity/rules that are cropping up both where I am and at other facilities too. For example, massaging and the use of essential oils are prohibited, even a gentle hand massage with some hand lotion is disallowed! I am new to the industry and feel perplexed by the difference in rules and regulations between workplaces. I have heard different stories from other students and at my local Diversional Therapy Association meetings. By the way, congrats on a great website with so many great resources and tips.
Myra 13th Nov 2016 Studying
Is what Christine is experiencing re rules/rigidity a usual practice in nursing/aged care homes?
Kerry 18th Sep 2010 Diversional Therapist
Hi Solange and Carmel. I use grapeseed oil and apricot kernel oil, roughly 1/2 and 1/2. Jojoba oil is fantastic, doesn't go rancid, and if the client has dry skin I always add some. I also make a solid mix, that melts on contact with skin, but the oil is best for most uses. Good idea to squeeze the contents of a Vit E capsule into your oil blend, to slow down oxidisation and resulting rancid smell. Say, 1 capsule in about 250ml oil would be good, and is also beneficial to skin.
Solange 19th Sep 2010
Great tips Kerry, thank you very much. In our facility we also sometimes use moisturizer first and then the aroma mixture, but the Vitamin E into the oil mixture sounds really good.
Carmel 24th May 2010 Co-Ordinater
working with these recipes the results are remarkable some times suttle yet affective, these oils have been proven to bring ease and aid in discomfort helping the elderly to feel at ease.
uplifting to the body, mind emotions, spirit. I would also like to share other sucessful mixtures
Solange 25th May 2010
Hi Carmel,
By all means, if you have a good oil mixture recipe for massage, please send it in to be shared.There will be a few more mixtures of my own very soon on the website.Cheers
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