# Efficacy of aromatherapy for reducing stress among elderly residents in geriatric homes at Gujarat

## TL;DR

This study shows that lavender aromatherapy significantly reduces stress in elderly residents of geriatric homes in Gujarat.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy as a safe and affordable stress reduction method for institutionalized elderly.

## Key findings

- Stress scores decreased significantly from 2.74 to 1.10 after 14 days of lavender oil inhalation.
- Duration of stay and nature of admission were significantly associated with initial stress levels.
- Lavender aromatherapy was found to be safe and effective for elderly residents.

## Abstract

Elderly residents in geriatric homes frequently experience stress and aromatherapy is a safe non-pharmacological intervention. A
pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test study was conducted among 50 elderly residents in Gujarat, who received daily lavender oil
inhalation for 14 days. Stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale and mean stress scores dropped significantly from 2.74 to
1.10 (p < 0.001). Duration of stay and nature of admission were significantly associated with pre-test stress. Thus, we show that
lavender aromatherapy is effective, safe and affordable for reducing stress in institutionalized elderly populations.