Older persons may find that their sense of taste and smell begins to fade as the number of taste buds decreases and their ability to identify familiar flavours diminishes. Recognising how taste buds and the sense of smell change with age helps older persons maintain a balanced diet and continue enjoying meals.
Why Do Taste and Smell Change as You Age?
Human beings are born with roughly 9,000 taste buds. They detect sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and savoury (umami) flavours. Sense of smell contributes greatly to how we perceive taste because aroma and taste work together to tell the difference between foods. Changes in the taste buds and sense of smell often become noticeable, especially after age 60.
The Impact of Declining Senses
The number of taste buds decreases, and remaining taste receptors may not respond as strongly, making it harder to enjoy meals that were once favourites. With a declining sense of smell, the aroma that once made a warm bowl of soup inviting may not register in the same way. This can lead to less interest in fruits, vegetables, and nutrient-rich dishes.
To counteract these changes, it’s common for older persons to crave an excess of sweet and salty foods. To compound this, dry mouth (often caused by reduced saliva production) can also affect the taste of food and make it more difficult to swallow.
How Do These Changes Impact Appetite and Nutrition?
When older persons experience a diminished sense of taste and smell, their appetite may decline.
Meals that were once appealing may no longer taste or smell as good. This reduction in sensory enjoyment can have several important consequences:
- Reduced nutrient intake – Individuals may struggle to consume enough fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and other nutrient-rich foods.
- Less enjoyment in eating – With flavours no longer as distinct, eating may become less pleasurable, turning a once-enjoyable experience into a routine task.
- Decreased interest in key foods – Core dietary staples, including leafy greens or whole grains, may lose their appeal, leading to imbalanced meals.
- Lower overall caloric consumption – Reduced interest in food can cause a drop in total calories eaten each day, affecting strength and energy levels.
- Long-term health effects – Consistent nutrient shortfalls and diminished mealtime satisfaction can eventually influence overall wellbeing, making it harder to maintain good health and resilience.
How Can Older Persons Adapt to These Changes?
There are several steps older persons can take to improve their dining experience:
Enhance Flavour with Seasonings and Herbs
Adding fresh herbs, mild spices, or aromatic ingredients to dishes can help compensate for lost taste. For example, seasoning vegetables with thyme or basil, or marinating lean meats in light sauces, can boost flavour without relying on excessive salt or sugar.
Comfort Keepers provides guidance on nutritious meal planning and preparation to ensure meals remain both delicious and healthful.
Focus on Food Textures and Colours
Since taste buds may not function as well, exploring appealing textures and colourful produce can make meals more interesting. Crunchy vegetables, creamy soups, or a plate arranged with bright fruits can engage other senses like sight and touch, making it easier to enjoy eating.
Address Dry Mouth Concerns
If dry mouth makes swallowing difficult, discussing options with a pharmacist or GP can help identify products such as artificial saliva sprays or lozenges. Ensuring a balanced fluid intake and choosing foods that are easier to swallow, like mashed potatoes or soups, can also help.
Check Food Labels and Storage
With a reduced sense of smell, detecting spoiled or rancid items may become harder. Marking purchase dates on containers, following use-by dates, and storing foods carefully ensures safety. Consider seeking guidance from a local community nurse or public health professional on safe food handling. Our carers are trained to provide assistance with safe food handling practices to maintain food safety and quality.
Maintain Social Engagement Around Meals
Eating with family, friends, or a carer can create a more enjoyable dining atmosphere. Discussing meal choices, sharing recipes, or cooking together encourages older persons to find delight in the eating experience despite taste changes.
How Homecare Services Support Health Eating Habits
Homecare services like Comfort Keepers can help older persons cope with taste and smell changes. A home support worker can assist by:
- Preparing meals that feature aromatic herbs, colourful ingredients, and soft textures.
- Ensuring the individual’s preferred flavours are considered when planning meals.
- Offering help with shopping and selecting fresh produce that appeals to remaining taste.
- Checking labels for dates and suggesting safe food choices.
- Supporting a relaxed, dignified dining environment that encourages engagement and enjoyment.
Embracing Positive Adjustments
Comfort Keepers understand that changes in taste buds and sense of smell are a natural part of ageing. We pride ourselves on helping older persons take proactive steps to ensure meals remain nourishing and satisfying.
Small adaptations can bring-on big changes, which is why we encourage exploring new seasonings, choosing diverse textures, seeking professional advice when dryness affects swallowing, and enjoying meals in good company.
Contact us today to find out how our dedicated carers can support you or your loved one in adapting to changes in taste and smell while ensuring meals remain enjoyable and nutritious!
Further Support and Trusted Resources
For additional guidance and support on adapting to changes in taste and smell, consider reaching out to the following organisations:
- Age Action for resources on maintaining health and nutrition.
- Family Carers Ireland for support in caregiving and meal planning.
- Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland for advice on changes in sensory perception associated with cognitive decline.
- WHO for global insights into ageing and nutrition.
