The sense of smell has a deep connection to our emotions, memories and even our physical well-being. Particularly in old people's and nursing homes, where many residents suffer from limited mobility or cognitive impairments, targeted room fragrance can make an enormous difference. The right fragrance can calm, stimulate and even have a positive effect on eating behavior.
Scientific studies show that fragrances not only increase well-being, but can also help to alleviate symptoms of dementia and loss of appetite. The targeted use of fragrances in old people's and nursing homes should therefore not be underestimated.
The effect of fragrances in old people's and nursing homes
Studies have shown that certain fragrances can have a positive effect on the well-being of older people. A study by the University of Northumbria found that lavender and rosemary can improve the cognitive performance of dementia patients. Lavender has a calming effect, while rosemary stimulates memory performance.
Another research project shows that lemon balm oil can reduce anxiety and restlessness. In a study with dementia patients, the use of lemon balm oil was able to reduce challenging behavior by 30%.
In addition, the sense of smell plays a crucial role in stimulating the appetite, which is particularly important in nursing homes. Many older people have a reduced feeling of hunger, which can lead to malnutrition. Targeted scenting in the dining area can increase appetite in a natural way.
Stimulating the appetite through targeted scent selection in the cafeteria
The use of certain scents in the cafeteria or dining room can help to stimulate the appetite of residents and thus improve food intake. This is particularly important for seniors, who often have little appetite or have lost their sense of taste due to age-related factors.
Scents such as "hot bread" or "coffee & cake" are particularly effective at stimulating hunger. The smell of freshly baked bread can bring back memories of the past for many residents and evoke positive associations with shared meals at home. Likewise, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries can create a pleasant atmosphere that makes you want to eat.
Studies show that the smell of fresh bread alone can increase appetite by up to 25%. This is used specifically in many restaurants and bakeries - a concept that can also be used in nursing homes to make food more palatable to residents.
Tips for the successful implementation of room fragrance in retirement and nursing homes
1. Targeted fragrance selection
The choice of the right fragrance is crucial. While lavender, lemon balm or chamomile have a calming effect on residents, fragrances such as "hot bread" or "coffee & cake" can be used in the dining areas to stimulate the appetite. Fresh citrus fragrances such as bergamot or orange can have an invigorating effect and activate residents.
2. Dosage and intensity - less is more
Fragrances should work subtly in the background and not be intrusive. An overdose can be unpleasant and have the opposite of the desired effect. Fragrance dispensers with a fine dosage ensure even and gentle distribution.
3. Taking individual preferences and sensitivities into account
Not every resident finds all fragrances pleasant. Some people are sensitive to certain aromas, which is why it is important to choose gentle and generally accepted fragrances. A good strategy is to involve the nursing staff and residents in the selection process.
4. Integration of scents into the daily routine
Scents should be used appropriately at the respective times of day. While calming scents such as lavender or sandalwood promote relaxation in the evening hours, invigorating citrus scents can be activated in the morning. Appetite-stimulating scents should be distributed in the dining rooms before meals in order to achieve the desired effect.
5. Combination with multisensory experiences
The effect of scents can be enhanced by other sensory impressions. In the cafeteria, for example, coffee machines can be placed visibly and the sound of grinding beans can be deliberately used to underline the scent experience. In relaxation rooms, the scent of lavender can be combined with soft music to enhance the calming effect.
Conclusion: More quality of life through targeted room scenting
Professional room scenting can have a significant impact on the quality of life in old people's and nursing homes. It helps to create a pleasant atmosphere that increases the well-being of the residents. It can also be used specifically to stimulate the appetite - especially through scents such as "Hot Bread" or "Coffee & Cake", which awaken memories of previous moments of enjoyment and stimulate the feeling of hunger.
Through a conscious scent strategy that is gently dosed and adapted to the needs of the residents, retirement and nursing homes can not only create a feel-good environment, but also actively contribute to the health and joy of life of the residents.
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