Has a scent ever reminded you of a specific experience? You
aren’t alone; researchers have studied the connection between memory and smell
and found certain scents can have a calming effect.
This finding is interesting as the number of adults living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease grows. Currently, 5.5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s, and according to the Alzheimer’s Association, this could triple by 2050. In the greater 66-county Kansas City area, there are nearly 50,000 people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s today.
Fading memory can be scary and frustrating for patients and their families. That’s where aromatherapy can make a difference. For many people, aromatherapy can help soothe negative feelings, such as stress, anxiety, restlessness and agitation by bringing back the most elaborate memories.
At The Sheridan at Overland Park, our Essence aromatherapy program recently received Argentum’s Best of Best award, a national award recognizing innovative new programs and
services working to improve the future of senior living, for its breakthrough approach to memory care. Essence
draws on the sensory stimulation of certain scents that help alleviate stress,
anxiety and depression, while supporting healthy digestion and promoting
positive emotions.
Focused on their personal wellbeing and preferences, Essence
incorporates touch, sounds, color, light, and taste for a multi-sensory
experience. In addition to our national
recognition, we continually receive positive feedback from our residents and
their families.
Memory loss is difficult to navigate, but an emphasis on experiences – and innovative programs like aromatherapy – can help comfort dementia and Alzheimer’s patients and give them the powerful ability to feel like themselves again.
To learn more, visit: www.seniorlifestyle.com/property/sheridan-overland-park/ .
