How to Use Aromatherapy in Care Homes

Aromatherapy is a type of therapy that uses natural plant oils, known as essential oils, to benefit physical and emotional health. In UK care homes, carers use aromatherapy to help residents feel calm, comfortable, and uplifted. This approach links scent to well-being, aiming to support holistic care.

Essential oils come from plants like lavender, rose, peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon. Each oil can influence mood, alertness, or relaxation in different ways. When used carefully, these oils blend into daily routines to soothe, comfort, or gently energise older adults or people living with dementia.

Not everyone will react the same way to a scent, so personal preference and health conditions matter. Aromatherapy should always be offered with attention to safety and consent.

Planning Aromatherapy in a Care Home

Before introducing aromatherapy, staff should create a simple plan. This includes discussing aims, safety, staff training, and integration into daily routines.

Steps to include:

• Checking residents’ medical histories for allergies, asthma, or medication interactions.
• Obtaining permission (consent) from residents or their family where possible.
• Selecting appropriate oils linked to desired effects (e.g. lavender for relaxation).
• Agreeing which methods to use, such as diffusers, topical application, or baths.
• Appointing well-trained, knowledgeable staff to oversee aromatherapy sessions.
• Recording outcomes and responses to tailor future sessions.

Consulting a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional helps manage risks. Written policies keep everyone informed.

Choosing the Right Essential Oils

Choosing oils starts with understanding what each oil can offer and the sensitivities of each resident. Some oils are known to calm the mind, while others may help alleviate discomfort or support restful sleep.

Popular oils for care homes:

• Lavender: Eases stress, supports sleep, and calms feelings of agitation.
• Rose: Lifts mood and creates a soothing, comforting atmosphere.
• Lemon: Refreshes and gently energises.
• Peppermint: Clears the mind and may ease mild headaches.
• Eucalyptus: Opens breathing and freshens the air—used with caution in people with breathing difficulties.
• Chamomile: Helps reduce anxiety and supports restful sleep.

Some oils, such as cinnamon or clove, should never be applied directly to the skin or used around people with allergies. Age, sensitivities, and health problems determine which oils are safe.

Always buy high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable suppliers. Diluted or impure oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Ways to Use Aromatherapy in Care Homes

Aromatherapy is adaptable, working well in both group settings and individual care plans. Delivery methods can be subtle or direct.

Diffusion

Diffusers release essential oil into the air so everyone in the room benefits. Staff add a few drops of oil to water inside an electric diffuser, then switch it on. The fragrance spreads gently, creating a calming or uplifting environment.

• Use in communal lounges, quiet rooms, or activity spaces.
• Limit diffusion to 30–60 minutes at a time, especially in smaller or poorly ventilated rooms.

Massage

Light hand or foot massages using diluted essential oils allow residents to enjoy direct contact with the scent. Staff must mix essential oil with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil, to prevent skin irritation.

• Always complete a skin patch test before a massage.
• Check for cuts, broken skin, or allergies before applying oils.

Massage can be especially comforting for people living with dementia. It combines touch with scent, which may help reduce agitation or restlessness.

Aromatherapy Baths

For those who can safely have a bath, carers add a few drops of essential oil (blended into a dispersant like milk) to the water. This turns a basic bath into a relaxing, nurturing experience.

• Never add undiluted essential oils directly to bathwater.
• Stay with the resident throughout the bath for comfort and safety.

Personal Inhalers

Some residents may find personal inhalers discreet and empowering. They allow individuals to breathe in their chosen scent, giving a sense of control.

• Provide guidance on safe use and storage.
• Ensure the resident can manage an inhaler independently or with support.

Scented Objects

Sachets, pillows, or handkerchiefs scented with a chosen oil offer gentle, portable scent. These are ideal for residents who prefer a softer fragrance or are not comfortable with skin application.

Training and Staff Involvement

Care staff require training in the correct use of aromatherapy. This includes understanding the properties and risks of essential oils, suitable methods, and the wellbeing needs of residents. Training should cover:

• Safe dilution rates for different oils and individuals.
• Appropriate storage and handling of oils.
• Identifying allergic reactions or side effects.
• Record-keeping and resident consent.
• Communication with residents and families about aromatherapy.

Regular supervision and updates help maintain safe practice.

Aromatherapy for People Living with Dementia

Aromatherapy often brings positive effects to people living with dementia. Familiar scents may evoke happy memories, reduce distress, and encourage relaxation.

People with dementia might not be able to verbally consent. Use a best-interest approach:

• Observe closely for signs of enjoyment or distress.
• Adjust scents if someone appears uncomfortable.
• Involve families in choosing suitable oils.

Aromatherapy can support routines, such as calming before meals or promoting sleep in the evening. For some, blending scent with music, reminiscence, or sensory activities deepens enjoyment.

Managing Risks and Precautions

Safety is always a priority. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can irritate skin or cause breathing problems if misused.

Take these precautions:

• Always dilute oils before skin contact.
• Never apply oils to broken skin, eyes, or sensitive areas.
• Introduce one new scent at a time. Monitor reactions.
• Keep oils and diffusers out of reach of confused or vulnerable residents.
• Confirm that oils do not interact poorly with prescribed medicines.
• Store oils in cool, dark places in clearly labelled bottles.

Some residents may have asthma, epilepsy, or allergies that make aromatherapy unsuitable. Individual assessment is key.

Record-Keeping and Monitoring Effects

Keep a simple aromatherapy log for each resident. This should include:

• Oils used and dilution rates
• Methods used (diffusion, massage, etc.)
• Duration and timing of each session
• Resident responses—calmness, alertness, discomfort, or noticeable changes
• Any side effects or allergic reactions

These records help refine usage and protect resident safety.

Involving Residents and Families

Participation and choice matter. Introduce aromatherapy gently, offering samples for residents to smell and rate. Encourage families to share any scent preferences or aversions.

Families often appreciate being involved, particularly when planning activities for people living with memory loss. This relationship-building can deepen trust and support.

Choices may include:

• Selection of oils
• Preferred delivery methods
• Frequency of use

Celebrate positive changes and collect feedback. This helps adjust approaches to suit everyone’s needs.

Legal, Ethical, and Cultural Considerations

Consent is a legal requirement. Document agreement for each resident before starting aromatherapy.

Respect cultural and religious beliefs. Some oils or scents may be unsuitable for certain backgrounds. Involve residents and their families in decision-making.

Care homes must follow the same standards for infection control and health as any other therapy. Always prioritise resident comfort and dignity.

Creating a Relaxing Environment

Aromatherapy works best in a calm, secure, and homely setting. Pay attention to lighting, room temperature, and background noise. Combine aromatherapy with gentle music or soft lighting during relaxation time.

Some activity ideas that incorporate aromatherapy:

• Gentle hand massages during story time
• Relaxation group sessions before bed
• Scented art or craft sessions with naturally scented objects

Staff can adjust daily routines so that aromatherapy becomes a regular and enjoyable part of care.

Common Questions and Concerns

What happens if a resident dislikes a scent?
Switch immediately to another oil or method. Always prioritise comfort and personal choice.

Can anyone use aromatherapy?
Some medical conditions, such as asthma, epilepsy, or certain skin problems, make aromatherapy unsafe. Always check with a resident’s doctor if unsure.

Is aromatherapy safe for people on medications?
While most oils are safe, some interact with medicines. Consult healthcare professionals to check safety.

How often should aromatherapy be used?
Frequency depends on individual need and tolerance. Start slowly and monitor results.

Can aromatherapy make a difference for people living with dementia?
Many care workers report positive changes: calmer behaviour, improved sleep, and brightened moods. Each person is different; observe and adapt as needed.

Benefits of Aromatherapy in Care Homes

Care staff report these common benefits from using aromatherapy:

• Reduced anxiety and agitation
• Improved sleep quality
• Gentle lift in mood
• Increased sense of personal comfort
• Support for routines like bathing and bedtime
• Positive effects on communal wellbeing

Some residents become calmer, others more alert. Aromatherapy can support dignity, person-centred care, and a positive home environment.

Final Thoughts

Aromatherapy in care homes brings natural scents into daily life to support the wellbeing of older people and those with dementia. Successful use depends on careful planning, safe practice, proper staff training, and respect for resident choice. Scent can comfort, uplift, and calm, helping care homes feel more homely, inclusive, and supportive for everyone involved.