earticle

영어

This study aims to identify research trend s and explore the latest methods of applying aromatherapy to the elderly. The main objective is to provide evidence in support of development of an aromatherapy nursing intervention program for the elderly. This investigation is in the form of a literature review focusing on the current status and trends in research conducted on aromatherapy intervention programs for the elderly in Korea over past decade. Published studies were identified through database such as KCI, RISS, DBpia, NDSL. A total 14 studies were selected for this review. The majority of selected articles fall within the field of nursing. The duration of the programs varied, ranging from less than 20 minutes to over 40 minutes, and consisted of 1 to 6 sessions. Most of methods involved massages using lavender oil in a hospital setting. Outcome variables were categorized into three main domains based on significance: psychological-emotional, interpersonal relationship, and physical-physiological. The variables within each category varied with 4 in psychological- emotional, 1 in interpersonal relationship, and 17 in physical-physiological. This review indicates that aromatherapy intervention programs have positive effects on the elderly and suggests the potential for developing similar interventions on a broader scale within community settings in the future.