The softer side of therapy: Therapeutic benefits without the "work" - Feature Article

Nursing Homes, March, 2002 by Sandra Hoban

Staff must be trained not only on the props and their use, but also on what music to select and use the use of aromatherapy. Families also need to be educated so that when visiting they, too, along with helping their loved one, can relax. "Often," Mazure observes, "I see staff come in and use the room to regroup their own thoughts."

Mazure states that Snoezelen has achieved good results in all their facilities. Psychiatric patients who suffer from hallucinations can go in the room, relax, refocus on reality and not hear voices. At Southgate, there is a meditation room for residents who need private one-on-one time that incorporates a mini-Snoezelen room. If someone is very upset or displaying severe behavior problems, he can enter the room to relax and come out feeling better. "After residents attend our Snoezelen program," Mazure states, "they go to lunch. Participating in this Snoezelen program has enabled them to be more calm and focused for meals."

Mazure cautions that this program does take time to institute. "Not only do staff and family have to be trained, but the residents also require some training, because this is something different for them," she explains. "It takes a while for staff and residents to catch on so be patient and don't give up."

Initiating alternative therapies can open up a world of opportunity, growth and satisfaction for long-term care residents. Along with horticultural, massage and Snoezelen therapy, the alternative therapies roster includes pet therapy, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy and more--and keeps growing.

For more information on Horticultural Therapy--Pam Mammarella, New-Courtland, Inc.: phone (215) 965-2371, fax (215) 965-1909 ore-mailpammamm@newcourttand.org; Massage Therapy--AMTA: phone (847) 864-0123, fax (847) 864-1178 or visit amtamassage.org; SnoezeLen Therapy--Guylaine Mazure, Southgate Behavioral Management Unit: phone (201) 848-5828 or fax (201) 848-5870.

(*) The word Snoezelen is derived from the Dutch words for "to snooze" and "to sniff." FlagHouse, Inc., is the exclusive North American distributor of the SNOEZELEN concept and equipment.