The “smell of the elderly” is real, experts say it is how to avoid it as it ages

Many people have published on social networks about the so -called “smell of elderly”, described as a slightly moldy or greasy aroma sometimes associated with older adults.

This phenomenon is more science than stigma, experts say.

“I think we all know this smell,” said Dr. Dan Wesson, professor at the Florida University Faculty, News Digital.

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“Some describe it as dusty, like an old book. Others as greasy or greasy. None of these, of course, are flattering descriptions, and that is why this is not the type of smell with which you want to label a person,” he said.

The biology of aging and body smell

The skin is the largest organ in the body, so it makes sense that it will undergo significant changes as the body ages, according to Wesson.

During the majority of our lives, body smell comes from sweat, bacteria and dead skin, which can be addressed with basic hygiene. But with aging, changes in skin composition and oil production make odors more complex, said the expert.

“Skin cells accumulate damage over time,” he said, and those damaged cells can release compounds that contribute to the smell.

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A culprit key is 2-Noenal, a compound that emerges from lipid oxidation, which is the fat process in cells that break down due to imbalances in the body, according to studies.

This compound is exclusive to aged skin and has a greasy smell in the form of cardboard.

The 2-Noenal is not easily eliminated with regular hygiene practices, “by nature of its fat composition,” said Wesson.

“That is why handling this body smell requires more complex solutions,” he said.

Wesson suggests adopting a more holistic approach when eating foods rich in antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables, staying hydrated and using antioxidant skin care.

Other contributing factors

Some medications, including those of high cholesterol, ADHD or depression, could also affect the metabolism of the body and how much sweat, contributing to the smell, according to Wesson.

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Hormones can also influence how people smell. Postmenopausal women often experience skin and aroma due to the decrease in estrogen levels, according to studies.

“Hormonal replacement therapy can avoid some changes that can alter the smell of the body, although [HRT] He is not exempt from risk and must be carefully discussed with his doctor, “said Wesson.

Olfactory red flags

Not all smell changes are normal, experts warn.

“A sudden change in body smell can be a warning sign of an underlying health problem,” Wesson warned.

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Diseases such as cancer and dementia, for example, can alter the chemistry of the body and smell.

“If your loved ones report a sudden change, you must consult your doctor,” WESSON advised.

Some people can worry about how they smell even when others would not be noticed. That concern could come from parosmia, a distorted sense of smell or olfactory hallucinations, where unpleasant odors imagine.

“People can perceive odors that are not there at all,” said Wesson. “It is important to consider whether it is a real smell or simply a change in perception.”

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By understanding the biology behind age -related smell and adopting a proactive approach to skin health and care, this condition can be handled, experts say.