According to the National Institutes of Health, 13.9 percent of Americans age 71 and older have some type of dementia.
Dementia includes a range of behavioral and psychological symptoms–agitation, aggression, depression, apathy–in addition to a decline in memory function. Up to 97% of people with dementia experience these symptoms, making it very important to manage them carefully. These behavioral and psychological symptoms are distressing for both the individual and the caregivers.
A recent systemic review found that essential oils may help reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms associated with dementia. Frequently used oils included: lavender (two drops applied to underwear three times per day for four weeks; diffused every other day for two hours; two drops on a pillow while sleeping for three weeks), lemon and rosemary (diffused in the morning), and lavender and orange (diffused in the evening). The review suggests that essential oils may improve the quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers.