The Evidence-Based Development of “Memories” by SatiSaanti
The Origin and Evidence-Based Development of “Memories” by SatiSaanti
“Memories” began with curiosity, critical inquiry, and deep observation during fieldwork in elderly care centers in Thailand and internationally. Rather than emerging solely from artistic expression, the scent was shaped through attentive listening and empathetic engagement with the everyday realities of older adults and their caregivers—subtle breathing rhythms, quiet fatigue, and unspoken emotional narratives embedded within care environments.
Positioned at the intersection of design, architecture, and well-being, this project reframes “scent” as more than a sensory or aesthetic element. It is approached as aromatherapy—an evidence-informed modality that supports emotional regulation, memory recall, and mental balance. Neurologically, olfactory stimuli are uniquely connected to the limbic system, enabling scent to evoke feelings of calm, safety, and familiarity, while reactivating meaningful personal memories.
Grounded in this perspective, the project responds to a growing recognition of non-pharmacological interventions in dementia care. Aromatherapy and olfactory stimulation have been associated with reduced agitation and improved emotional states through memory evocation. However, the intentional design of olfactory environments in care facilities remains underexplored—particularly interventions that simultaneously enhance mood and mitigate unpleasant environmental odours using safe, naturally derived essential oils.
“Memories” was therefore developed through a design-led research process informed by a systematic literature review on dementia and aromatherapy. Initial field insights identified key olfactory pain points in elderly care settings, which were translated into inclusive and emotionally responsive design objectives, including:
Mitigation of unpleasant ambient odours
Recognition of individual scent identities among older adults
Cost-effectiveness and accessibility in care settings
Practicality within real-world caregiving contexts
Safety and physiological gentleness of natural ingredients
The resulting intervention, “Memories” Room Spray, is a therapeutic scent formulation composed of Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), Juniper berry (Juniperus communis), Pomelo (Citrus maxima), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), and Bergamot (Citrus bergamia). Together, these elements were selected to create a positive, hopeful, and emotionally supportive olfactory profile.
To evaluate its performance, controlled laboratory testing was conducted using both instrumental and sensory methods. An electronic nose (E-nose) was used to assess scent diffusion and persistence, alongside panel-based evaluation with 10 participants in a controlled indoor environment (42 m³). Results showed that the scent produced significantly stronger perceptual responses than ambient air, with immediate detection upon application. Perceived intensity decreased gradually by approximately 45% over 60 minutes—indicating moderate persistence without overwhelming the space.
Participants rated the scent intensity as moderate, suggesting a balance between perceptual clarity and comfort. High distinctiveness scores further confirmed a recognisable olfactory identity, while the gradual dissipation profile supports its suitability for continuous use in enclosed environments. Although direct correlations with Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) were not established at this stage, the findings demonstrate strong potential for supportive emotional and environmental impact.
“Memories” ultimately functions as a bridge between sensory experience, emotion, and care—a designed olfactory medium that soothes, evokes positive memories, and fosters a sense of “home” within shared care environments. More than a fragrance, it represents an invisible yet perceptible layer of therapeutic design.
As an affordable and scalable intervention, “Memories” highlights how sensory-informed, inclusive design can translate research into practical tools for everyday caregiving. It contributes to the evolving role of design in health and well-being, while pointing toward the need for further research into long-term outcomes, clinical applications, and real-world integration in dementia care contexts.