There are plenty of natural remedies that can alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s. Essential oils are one of the most popular options. They can soothe nerves, promote sleep, and reduce inflammation.
The Benefits of Therapeutic Aromatherapy
Caregivers can use aromatherapy to help seniors who are experiencing the mental and physical symptoms of Parkinson’s. This type of therapy uses essential oils, which are extracted plant essences. These oils affect the body on a variety of levels. Their scents can stimulate the mind and soothe anxious nerves. They may also have physical benefits like antibacterial properties and the ability to repair skin and tissues. Seniors with Parkinson’s should look for oils that reduce inflammation, minimize tremors, and help them manage the stress of their condition.
Essential oils can boost your loved one’s energy levels, mood, and overall quality of life. Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust elder care professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she lives with an illness and performs the daily tasks of living.
How to Use Oils
There are several ways to use essential oils to curb the symptoms of Parkinson’s. For seniors who react strongly to smell, caregivers can use a diffuser to spread the scent around the room. Essential oils can also be applied topically. These oils are easily absorbed, but a gentle massage makes them even more effective. Essential oils can also be added to a warm bath, used with a hot compress, or mixed with an unscented moisturizer.
Reduce Inflammation
Many of the symptoms of Parkinson’s are caused by inflammation of the brain. Some essential oils like frankincense and helichrysum are known for reducing inflammation. These aromatic oils can provide much-needed relief for seniors with Parkinson’s. Caregivers can apply these oils to the temples via a cotton ball or gentle massage.
Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on. For these families, the perfect solution is elderly home care. Potomac families rely on our caregivers whenever they need time to rest, work, run errands, and even go on vacation.
Control Tremors
Vetiver is one of the best essential oils for anxiety and brain health. It can also prevent the tremors associated with Parkinson’s. This oil has a sweet, smoky scent, and it’s been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It can alter the neural activity that leads to stress, anxiety, and muscle spasms. Vetiver can be used as massage oil, diffused through the room, or added to the bath for a relaxing soak.
Promote Restful Sleep
Many seniors with Parkinson’s have a difficult time getting a good night’s sleep. Essential oils are a natural way to help them drift peacefully to sleep. Lavender is a well-known sleep inducer. Insomniacs often use this essential oil to promote healthy rest. It can even induce slow-wave sleep. This part of the sleep cycle allows the muscles to relax and the mind to organize memories. To use lavender as an all-natural sleep medication, caregivers can have seniors sniff a few drops 30 minutes before they get into bed. Diffusing it through the bedroom can also be highly beneficial. Some people like to combine lavender oil with water and spray the mixture on their pillows and sheets.
Seniors with Parkinson’s may have difficulty living at home without assistance. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of senior home care Potomac, MD, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (301) 363-2580 today.
