The power of scent: essential oils in care for people with disabilities

I often hear from people in the field that the use of essential oils in the workplace isn’t really taking off, because not the whole team is on board with it. Perhaps you think it’s a bit of a woolly or spiritual topic. But just imagine if, in the future, we needed less medication precisely because essential oils are doing their job. That’s why I’d like to explain what essential oils are, what effects they can have and how you can use them. With this blog, I hope to inspire you to harness the power of scent in the workplace, together with your team. Believe me: I wish this had been possible back in my day!

In the care of people with disabilities, peace of mind, safety and quality of life are key. Within this field, there is an increasing focus on finding additional methods to support clients’ wellbeing. One such method that has gained more attention in recent years is aromatherapy: the use of essential oils.

But what exactly can essential oils offer in the field of care for people with disabilities? And what do you need to bear in mind when using them? I’d be happy to tell you!

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are natural fragrances extracted from flowers, leaves, bark or other parts of plants. Examples include Lavender, Orange, Peppermint or Eucalyptus. These oils have been used for centuries, not only for their scent, but also for their potential effects on the body and mind.

There are various ways to use essential oils:

• As a spray

• Using a diffuser (to disperse into the air)

• In massage oil or personal rollers (for external use on the skin)

• In bathwater or via a scent patch (a plaster) that you stick onto your skin

Application in care for people with disabilities

In care homes, day centres and at home, essential oils are increasingly being used to create a calming atmosphere, help clients relax or support certain behaviours. Below are some examples of how you can use essential oils safely and effectively, including with products from the Linde Care range, which have been specially developed for use in the healthcare sector.

𝙾𝚗𝚝𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚔𝚔𝚎𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚎𝚗 𝚛𝚞𝚜𝚝

Many clients experience sensory overload. Smells such as Lavender, Mandarin and Chamomile are known for their calming effects. A subtle scent in the room can help you relax, especially during transitional moments such as bedtime or after a busy day.
Tip: Be Calm

𝚂𝚝𝚎𝚖𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚎𝚗 𝚐𝚎𝚍𝚛𝚊𝚐

Some oils can help to lift your mood. Citrus scents such as Orange or Lemon have an invigorating and refreshing effect. For clients experiencing mood swings or behaviour that is not fully understood, scent can offer subtle support – always, of course, as part of a broader approach.
Tip: Be Happy

𝚉𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚞𝚒𝚐𝚕𝚒𝚓𝚔𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐

For clients in disability care with an intellectual disability, scent can form part of a sensory activity. Scents can evoke memories or simply provide a pleasant stimulus in a safe environment. Aromatherapy fits perfectly with experience-based care, which emphasises the ‘here and now’.
Tip: Be Embraced or Be Peaceful

𝚂𝚕𝚊𝚊𝚙𝚘𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚞𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐

Sleep problems are common in care for people with disabilities. Oils such as Lavender, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood can, if used correctly, help you achieve a deeper and more restful sleep.
Tip: Be Sleepy

Safety and points to note

Although essential oils are natural, they are not automatically harmless. In care for people with disabilities, it is important to handle these products with care and expertise.

Please note the following:

• Use only 100% natural, pure oils
• Always dilute before applying to the skin
• Be aware of any allergies, asthma, hypersensitivity or contraindications
• Start with small amounts
• Do not use oils if you have epilepsy or are taking medication without consulting a doctor

Close cooperation with doctors, behavioural specialists and family members is essential for safe use.

A real-life example

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In a residential care home for people with severe multiple disabilities, Lavender is used daily in a diffuser in the communal living room. Staff have noticed that residents react more calmly during stressful moments, such as during personal care or after dinner. Experiments are also being carried out with Be Happy, which is brimming with citrus scents, to gently wake clients up in the morning.

Be sure to check out our other blog posts too “Real-life stories” for more tips and inspiration.

There’s no such thing as miracles….

I hope I’ve been able to give you a glimpse into the world of essential oils and that this blog post might have changed your mind. Remember: essential oils are not a miracle cure, but they can be a valuable addition to your existing care routine.

When used responsibly and with care, they help to create a pleasant atmosphere, moments of tranquillity and a sensory experience. And that’s something everyone is entitled to!

𝙻𝚒𝚎𝚏𝚜 𝙲𝚑𝚒𝚊𝚛𝚊