Aromatherapy raises motivation in dementia patients

Further evidence was reported in the Australian Journal of Holistic Nursing indicating that Aromatherapy can be very helpful in the care of patients suffering from dementia.

A clinical trial as to the effectiveness of aromatherapy on motivational behaviour in a dementia care setting was undertaken. Patients were monitored over a period of  two months, and then for a further two months during which they received aromatherapy treatments. 

Reviewing the results, the researchers found that the patients showed a significant improvement in motivational behaviour during the period of aromatherapy treatment.

The report confirms earlier research indicating that aromatherapy has a beneficial, therapeutic role to play in the care of dementia patients.

Aust J Holist Nurs 1998 Oct;5(2):47-9. A clinical trial of the effect of aromatherapy on motivational behaviour in a dementia care setting using a single subject design. MacMahon S, Kermode S. 

return to top