Aromatherapy can help make a new space feel more familiar to someone with memory loss by using scents that trigger positive memories and provide comfort. Our sense of smell is closely linked to the brain areas involved in memory and emotion, so certain aromas can evoke feelings of familiarity and calmness even in unfamiliar surroundings.
For example, rosemary is an herb traditionally linked to memory enhancement and mental clarity. Its scent can stimulate brain function and reduce anxiety, which might help someone with memory loss feel more grounded in a new environment. Lavender is another popular aroma known for its calming effects, improving sleep and reducing stress, which can ease the discomfort of being in an unfamiliar place.
Using essential oils like rosemary, lavender, sweet basil, or mandarin in a diffuser or as part of a scent routine can create a sensory connection that reminds the person of home or past experiences. This sensory cue can reduce confusion and anxiety, making the new space feel less strange and more welcoming.
Additionally, regular exposure to familiar scents through smell therapy can provide cognitive stimulation, which is beneficial for people with dementia or other memory impairments. This approach helps engage the brain and can improve mood and focus, contributing to a sense of familiarity and comfort in new surroundings.
In practice, caregivers might introduce a favorite scent from the person’s past or use a blend of essential oils known to support memory and relaxation. Over time, these scents become associated with safety and familiarity, helping the individual adjust more easily to a new space.
