The Potential of Using Smell and Smellscapes at Nursing Homes to Support the Well-Being of People with Dementia

Dementia is a challenge, which the World Health Organization categorizes as a public health priority. Knowledge on prevention, treatment, care, and cure is needed. This case study investigates the potential of using smell at nursing homes to support the well-being of people with dementia. The study includes participant observation, interviews as well as spatial and sensory analysis. The results cover information on the use of smell, the challenges, and the possible benefits, categorized under the following themes: smell as part of a sensory-stimulating environment; open to smell impressions; minimizing smell nuisances and competing smells; the use of smell; selecting smells; and the potential effects of smell. As a component of a sensory environment where smell is supported by other types of stimuli, the targeted use of smell holds good potential for benefiting people with dementia.