At Lake Taupō Hospice, we’re always looking for ways to enhance the care and comfort we provide to our patients. For Clinical Specialist Palliative Nurse Lesley Dowding, that journey has led to the world of aromatherapy, a practice she has spent the past two years studying and now thoughtfully integrating into the care of some of our patients.
Lesley’s interest in aromatherapy has taken her on a journey of learning about essential oils, their origins, properties and the many ways they can influence both the mind and body. Her studies have also explored how aromatherapy can complement palliative care, including understanding its potential benefits, appropriate uses and contraindications, particularly when considering medications and individual patient needs.
As Lesley explains, “It’s not everyone’s cup of tea,” but for some patients, it has made a remarkable difference. She has seen positive outcomes for people experiencing restlessness, anxiety and pain, helping bring a sense of calm and comfort when they need it most.
Aromatherapy is not about replacing clinical treatment, but offering another gentle, complementary approach to care. For Lesley, it is about understanding each individual, what might help them feel more comfortable, and finding opportunities to improve their quality of life.
Lesley is currently putting the finishing touches on her presentation, Introducing Holistic Aromatherapy to the Lake Taupō Hospice Community, which she will deliver at next week’s Hospice New Zealand Palliative Care Conference in Hamilton. It is an opportunity to share her learning, experiences and the journey of introducing this approach within our hospice service.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Lesley’s passion, curiosity and commitment to learning within our team, and to be able to offer this additional service to patients who may benefit from it.
It is another example of how we continue to explore new approaches, listen to our patients and provide care that is as individual as the people we support — bringing our vision of the most unique care experience in the world to our community.
