Using Scents to Help Seniors

Harcum College Chemistry professor Alexandra Hilosky uses her knowledge of perfumery to help seniors at Sunrise Senior Living in Exton, PA. She and her husband Richard and friend Betty Borzillo volunteer each week at the senior community. Their efforts are part of the 100 Acts of Service to celebrate Harcum’s Centennial.

During their volunteer hours they present fragrances to the residents. The fragrances tend to match the season or time of year, for instance during the summer months, the fragrances were floral and beach/ocean notes; now that it is fall, the notes are spices, apples, and pumpkin.

Residents decorate their 5 ml spray vials with gems, stickers, and ribbons. They spray their perfumes on their pillows for “sweet dreams” and many fragrances remind them of special times, like Lilly of the valley reminded one resident of the flowers in her bridal bouquet and the smell of honeysuckle reminded another resident of walking to school (passing a honeysuckle hedge) with her best friend when she was 12 years old. These fragrances assist seniors with memory and often bring a smile to their faces.

What a scent-sational idea and way of helping older folks remember happier times! To learn more about the many ways the Harcum community has made an impact this year, visit harcum.edu/100projects.