Scents are strongly tied to memory.
For instance, when I wear a favorite perfume, it reminds me of my husband who introduced me to the perfume when we were dating.
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Although sense of smell may be impaired in persons with memory loss or the memory associated with the smell may lose some accuracy, I still think it worthy to try incorporating with the person with Alzheimer’s that you know.
The great thing about stimulating the senses is that no thinking skills are required; only joy is to be gained. And it might help trigger memories.
This time of year some common scents that come to mind are: pine needles; hot chocolate or apple cider; peppermint candy; egg nog: burning wood in a fire; incense.
What other scents might you consider? Has sense of smell in your loved one remained intact or changed in your experience?
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- About the Alzheimer's Reading Room
Original content Bob DeMarco, the Alzheimer's Reading Room
