Smellscape as a healing factor in institutional gardens to enhance health and well‐being for older people with dementia: A scoping review

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThere is mounting evidence for the health benefits of aromatic scents for the older people with dementia. However, existing research has focused on indoor aromatherapy using essential oils. It is necessary to explore the health benefits of smellscapes in the outdoor environment for older people with dementia.Aims and ObjectivesThis scoping review aims to examine existing evidence for smellscape as a healing factor in institutional garden for older people with dementia, try to bridge the knowledge gaps between outdoor sensory garden scents and aromatherapy to develop green care techniques that incorporate outdoor activities.MethodsSeven databases (Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science) were searched with English language articles published between 1990 and 2022. The PRISMA‐ScR Checklist was used.ResultsOut of 1013 articles, 11 meet the inclusion criteria. The comprehensive health outcomes include five aspects: mental health; physical health; reduced agitation behaviour; improved cognitive function; and well‐being. These aspects are part of the rehabilitation model comprising the person (older people with dementia), environment (garden smellscapes) and outdoor activities (active or passive interventions or a combination).ConclusionsThe smellscape, as a healing factor in the garden, not only benefits from evidence on indoor aromatherapy but also creates a sensory environment for older people with dementia by compensating for functional impairment, activity support and environmental creation, thereby promoting enhanced health and well‐being.Relevance to Clinical PracticeThe research on the healing effects of smellscapes presented in this review offers a novel environmental intervention technique for transferring evidence on essential oils to outdoor sensory gardens. This green care technique is suggested to assist in the creation of healing environments and interventions for people with dementia who cannot be cured.No Patient or Public ContributionThis scoping review did not directly involve patient or public contributions to the manuscript.