Complementary Therapy: Aromatherapy with Massage for Geriatric and Hospice Care—A Call for an Holistic Approach

ABSTRACT

The medical profession in America would benefit from including aromatherapy with massage in its care of elderly and hospice patients. The appropriate use of these modalities will enhance the quality of patient care and will compliment conventional treatment regimens. Currently, the medical profession in America treats the pathophysiological diseases of patients, but falls short in treating their emotional needs. Aromatherapy and massage can be used to fill this gap, as well as to improve the patient’s response to traditional treatment routines. While there is an abundance of literature extolling the use of essential oils, the articles reflect subjective, individual findings and don’t account for the multitude of influencing environmental factors which would include such things as the patient’s degree of pain, personality of the person administering care and that of the patient, or even the temperature of the room itself. Further research needs to be made so that scientific, qualitative measurements can be proven and documented. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: [email protected]]

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Notes on contributors

Carol Howdyshell

Carol Howdyshell is a student at Ohio University of Zanesville in the Associate Degree Nursing Program.