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Aromacaring Fact sheet

Alzheimer's disease


Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a degenerative disorder of the brain leading to nerve cell death.  It is similar to dementia in that it results in progressive loss of memory and other cognitive functions depending on which areas of the brain are affected.  It has tremendous impact on the person affected and also the family as they see their loved-one deteriorate over the cruel and often slow progression of the disease.  

There are other disorders which can mimic Alzheimer's Disease and dementia in the elderly such as a severe infection so it is important for the specialist to rule these out first.

Common signs of AD

Impairment of recent (short term) memory
Difficulty with language - forgetting or mis-using words
Frequently getting lost or wandering
Disorientated about the time of day
Agitation
Depression or apathy
Evidence of delusions or psychosis
Loss of some motor skills (eating, drinking etc)
May not be able to recognise familiar objects (scissors, telephone, utensils etc)

Medications available

While AD cannot be cured, progression can be slowed by the use of various medications which include Vitamin E therapy and Selegiline (antioxidants which minimise cell damage), Cholinesterase inhibitors (stimulates synaptic activity), psychotropic medication (for behavioural disturbances), anti-inflammatories and more recently, Ginkgo Biloba and Estrogens.

Causes

The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are very similar to the effects of aluminium toxicity.  In the 1980, aluminium poisoning from cooking utensils was thought to be a major cause (The Lancet, 26.11.1983).  More recently, AT has been linked to mercury poisoning from dental fillings, smoking, Down's Syndrome, Thyroid disease and some auto-immune disorders.

People with Alzheimer's also show low levels of vitamins A, E, B12 the Carotenes, Folic acid and Zinc (Bartram 1995, p18).

How can Aromatherapy help?

Touch is a way of communicating, providing comfort and showing that you care.  For those locked in the past, to hold and gently massage the hands is a way of providing security and a feeling of belonging.   A hand massage is also a way for relatives to interact with their loved one even if they are no longer recognised,  making them feel more useful and able to contribute to quality of life.  A hand massage may also distract an anxious person unaware of their present surroundings who may be frustrating other residents or carers with incessant questions or calling out.

Take care when starting a hand massage with someone with dementia, if you are wearing a white tunic or uniform, you may be mistaken for a nurse often associated with an invasive medical procedure.  Make sure you tell your client what you are doing and have the patience to keep repeating yourself as they will soon forget what you have said.

Select oils with a familiar fragrance as the part of the brain which stores and processes fragrance memory may still be intact.  Oils such as sweet orange, lavender, rose, mandarin or lemon are always popular, and you may wish to leave the same blend for other relatives and guests to use.

While performing the massage, take the opportunity to talk about the past with your client.  They will have fond memories which will still be vivid despite the deterioration of their short term recent memories.  Try not to keep correcting them if they mistake you for someone else, neither should you pretend to be someone you are not.  Ignore confusing comments and distract them onto another subject.

The key to successful treatment is patience and compassion.  Take the time to answer each question with respect, despite being asked the same things over and over again.  Remember, you are treating someone who has a wealth of experience, a life time of achievement, and a huge amount of memories to share if given the time, empathy, and dignity they deserve.

See Massage with the elderly or inactive person
 

© Jane Ellwood
Please seek permission if you intend copying the information on this website in any way unless it is for your own personal use.
The Aromacaring website is maintained by Jane Ellwood Dip(HE) RNLD, MIFPA, AC Registered Aromatherapist.
 Information on these pages is for educational purposes only and you are recommended to contact your GP before using any form of therapy for an existing medical condition. Aromacaring is unable to offer treatment or diagnosis via email.