Changes in the sense of smell or taste are common in older adults but are often overlooked compared to other sensory problems such as sight or hearing loss. Nevertheless, these issues can be very disabling and have a profound impact on the health and wellbeing of those affected. By recognising and understanding more about these disorders, you can help to improve the lives of those experiencing them.
Causes of smell or taste disorders
Smell and taste disorders are often linked. Some people are born without these senses but most commonly they become diminished as part of the ageing process. However, changes in smell or taste can also be a sign of a larger health problem.
Other common causes of smell or taste disorders include:
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- Neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia
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- Brain or nerve damage following infection, injury or stroke
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- Viral infections: colds, flu, Covid-19
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- Sinonasal disorders and allergies
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- Chemicals in medicines or toxins
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- Epilepsy
Beware the risks
Smell and taste help us to enjoy the world around us – to “smell the flowers”, savour food and drink, or enjoy a new perfume. Our sense of smell is also a powerful trigger for some important memories. Denied these “simple pleasures”, those affected are recognised to experience mental health problems such as depression or anxiety.
Our sense of smell can help us notice common dangers like burning food, gas leaks, toxic fumes or food that has gone off. Faced with these hazards, those affected are less able to stay safe and take timely remedial action.
Understanding related dietary changes
Smell or taste sensations can have a profound impact on our diet. If diminished, food will seem a lot more bland leading to a preference for foods with more flavour such as salty, sweet or spicy foods. Sometimes eating becomes an experience of texture rather than taste in which instance foods which crunch, crisp or melt can be appealing. In many cases, “healthy options” might become less appealing and in older people, a preference for more salt or sugar might seriously aggravate health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
In extreme instances, an affected individual might lose their interest in food altogether or find that some foods or scents are unpleasant or wholly intolerable.
What can you do to help?
Preparing healthy meals
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- Aim for foods with strong, defined textures and colours – think crunchy food, interesting textures, colourful ingredients with a contrast of hot and cold foods
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- Add depth of flavour eg with spices, condiments, smoked garlic, chilli, smoked paprika, strong cheese, marmite, fish sauce etc
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- Identify any unpleasant tasting/smelling foods that need to be avoided
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- Recognise the risks of unhealthy food preferences and avoid the associated health risks
Food safety
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- Make this a priority with food labels, ‘best before end’ dates and check for visual signs such as discoloration or mould
Domestic Safety
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- Ensure rooms are well ventilated when using cooking and heating appliances or cleaning products and avoid mixing any products that might produce toxic fumes.
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- Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and other safety equipment as necessary eg locking cooker valves
Further help and support
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- There is limited research into smell and taste disorders. If you or someone you know is affected by these problems then you might find it helpful to access the support provided by the charity “Fifth Sense”. They have provided further information in this video.
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Published November 2024
