Article Library Video Library Definitions

Do Older Adults Really Smell Different?

Author

HOME INSTEAD PITTSBURGH

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Home Instead Senior Care - Massillon & Wooster

Posted on

May 21, 2025

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

Email US

Click to Email Us

Odor – it’s a touchy subject, especially when it comes to the scents that may be associated with humans and the aging process. Some have asked the question: “Do older people really smell different?”

As it turns out, a significant amount of research has been done on the subject with mixed conclusions.

What You Need to Know About Nonenal

Sometimes when visiting senior care facility or an older adult’s home, you may notice a musty, grassy, or greasy odor. While some have inaccurately linked this scent with poor hygiene, scientists have another name for it: nonenal. It is a researched condition that could be connected to the aging process.

According to a study published by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, nonenal is a chemical compound that is produced when omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids on the skin are degraded through oxidation. Around age 40 in both men and women, as the skin begins producing more fatty acids, its natural antioxidant defenses begin to deteriorate. Hormonal changes like menopause in women can contribute to this chemical process as well.

Not Everyone Agrees

In a New York Times column, essayist Ann Bauer discovered disagreement among researchers about this issue. Bauer noted that in 2001, Japanese researchers first discovered this unsaturated aldehyde called 2-nonenal that is more concentrated on the skin of older people.

The Japanese study was confirmed by Johan Lundstrom, who used study samples from the underarms of people from the ages of 20 to 95 and presented them to 41 participants who ranked them on intensity and unpleasantness. Dr. Lundstrom and his co-authors found that “participants were able to correctly assign age labels to body odors originating from old-age donors, but not to body odors originating from other age groups.”

But George Preti, a 74-year-old analytical organic chemist, says his studies did not match the results found by either the Japanese group or Dr. Lundstrom’s team. Dr. Preti’s team used upper back and forearm samples and submitted them to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, concluding that “no method of analysis” revealed the presence of 2-nonenal in older subjects.

“Old people actually smell less than younger ones,” Dr. Preti said. “Unless you go to a nursing home, where there are hygiene issues in the mix, you’re not going to find this musty, unpleasant odor everyone is talking about.”

The scientists do agree that people with chronic diseases are more likely to give off odor no matter what their age, according to Bauer. Dr. Preti attributed this more to diet, metabolism, and self-care. Dr. Lundstrom credited the possibility — which he is in the process of investigating — that ongoing inflammation leads to odorous cell decay.

Tips to Keep Things Fresh

Regardless of what causes scents around older adults and their homes, experts do agree that there are ways to keep aging adults and their houses smelling fresh.

Keep fresh air flowing through the house.
Open windows periodically to let clean air in. Good ventilation can help prevent stale air from hanging around a house.
Clean the House.
Check the home for spoiled or expired food and ensure bedding is regularly washed. Wash clothing after each wearing and air out shoes. Use these tips to keep a senior's house clean and address hoarding if that's an issue.
Practice good bodily and dental hygiene.
Floss and brush teeth, gums, and tongue daily, and follow guidelines for proper denture care. Make sure that bathing is happening several times a week. Encourage sponge baths on those days when a full shower isn't scheduled.
Hydrate.
Drinking plenty of water can help cleanse the body of odor.
Refresh and repack old items.
Old clothing and paper can carry a musty smell. Wash clothing, then store between dryer sheets. Put dried lavender in breathable cotton or linen bags and add them to storage containers. Set an open box of baking soda on closet floors or hang a bag of cedar chops in closets.

It may be difficult for some older adults to follow the healthy routines mentioned above if they are dealing with illness or other issues. Know the signs that an aging adult may need more help around the house.

To view the original version of this article visit www.homeinstead.com/care-resources/health-conditions/older-adults-smell-different/
Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.

Other Articles You May Like

Sandwich Generation Resources

What is the Sandwich Generation?The term describes adults who are simultaneously caring for their own children and their aging parents. The concept was first popularized in the 1980s as life expectancy rose and more adults found themselves responsible for both older and younger generations at the same time. Who Belongs to the Sandwich Generation?Typically between 40 and 60 years oldOften Gen Xers or younger BoomersIncreasingly includes Millennials, especially those with young children and aging Baby Boomer parentsWomen often take on a disproportionate share of the caregiving duties Why Is It Growing?People are living longer: Aging parents often require care for years or even decades.Delayed parenthood: Many adults have children later in life, so theyre still raising kids while their parents are aging.Boomerang kids: Young adults are more likely to return home after college or need longer-term financial support.Insufficient retirement savings: Aging parents may not have the financial means to fully care for themselves. Challenges FacedEmotional StrainCaregiver burnoutFeelings of guilt or resentmentLack of personal timeFinancial PressurePaying for college and elder care at the same timeLess time and money for personal savings or retirement planningCareer ImpactMay reduce work hours, take unpaid leave, or leave jobs entirelyDifficulty advancing professionally due to divided focus Coping StrategiesFinancial Planning: Budgeting, long-term care insurance, estate planningSupport Networks: Therapy, caregiver support groups, extended family helpWorkplace Flexibility: Remote work, family leave policies, flexible hoursCommunity Resources: Adult day care, respite services, elder care programs A Shift in PerspectiveWhile often described in terms of stress and burden, many in the sandwich generation also report:A sense of purposeStrengthened family bondsIncreased empathy and resilience Financial Planning ToolsBudgeting and Planning:Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget): Track household expenses including elder care and child-related costs.SmartAsset: Offers tools to plan for long-term care and retirement needs.Long-Term Care Planning:Genworths Cost of Care Calculator: Understand what elder care may cost in your area.AARP Long-Term Care Calculator: Estimates needs and offers planning strategies. Emotional Support & Mental HealthCaregiver Support:Family Caregiver Alliance (caregiver.org): Offers local resources, education, and a support hotline.The National Alliance for Caregiving (caregiving.org): Advocacy, research, and community support.Therapy & Peer Support:BetterHelp or Talkspace: Online therapy platforms.Caregiver Action Network: Offers forums, peer support, and guidance for those caring for multiple generations. Elder Care ResourcesCare Services:Eldercare Locator (eldercare.acl.gov): A U.S. government service to find local elder support programs.Senior Housing Solutions: Helps locate senior living and in-home care services in SWFL.Meals on Wheels: Provides meal delivery and check-ins for seniors.Legal & Medical Documents:Five Wishes: Helps create legally valid advance directives and end-of-life plans.CaringInfo.org (by NHPCO): Free state-specific advance directive forms and planning guides. Child & Teen SupportEducation & Financial Help:FAFSA.ed.gov: Federal student aid applications.Savingforcollege.com: Help with 529 plans and education planning.Childcare Solutions:Care.com: Find babysitters, tutors, and child care services.Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, or local afterschool programs: Affordable and reliable youth programs.Read more on Wikipedia

Navigating Senior Placement in Utah: A Trusted Guide for Families

As our loved ones age, finding the right care and living arrangements becomes a pressing concern. For many Utah families, the process of senior placement can feel overwhelmingfilled with emotional decisions, logistical challenges, and a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Whether you're seeking assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, understanding your options and working with trusted professionals is essential to ensuring your loved one transitions safely and comfortably into the next phase of life.What Is Senior Placement?Senior placement refers to the process of helping older adults and their families identify and transition into the most appropriate living environment based on their health, preferences, and financial situation. This could include independent living, assisted living, memory care, or long-term skilled nursing.While some families go through the search alone, many rely on senior placement professionals or advisors to guide them through the maze of options. These experts assess the seniors needs and match them with communities or services that fit their medical, social, and financial criteria.Why Senior Placement Matters in UtahUtah has a growing population of older adults, and as demand rises, so do the number of available senior housing communities and care services. From Salt Lake City to St. George, the state offers a variety of optionsbut not all of them are the right fit for every individual.What makes senior placement in Utah especially important is the regional diversity of services and costs. Urban areas may offer more choices, while rural communities might require longer waitlists or travel distances. A knowledgeable senior placement professional can help families navigate these local differences, ensuring they find a safe and supportive environment without unnecessary stress.Key Factors to Consider in the Placement ProcessWhen beginning the senior placement journey in Utah, keep these considerations in mind:Level of care needed: Is your loved one still fairly independent, or are they living with complex medical needs or dementia? Location preferences: Do they want to remain close to family, or would they prefer a quieter community in a scenic part of Utah?Financial situation: What types of housing or care services are covered by insurance, Medicaid, or personal finances?Cultural or religious values: Utahs senior living communities vary in cultural offerings and affiliationsimportant factors for many families.Benefits of Using a Senior Placement ProfessionalEven if you have time to tour communities yourself, a senior placement specialist can save you time, money, and emotional energy. These professionals offer:In-depth knowledge of Utahs senior housing marketPersonalized recommendations based on care needsHelp coordinating tours and assessmentsInsight into availability, costs, and quality ratingsSupport with application and move-in logisticsBecause Seniors Blue Book is a neutral and trusted resource, we recommend that families educate themselves using local directories and free listings before making any decisions. A great place to begin is with our Utah Senior Resources Directory where you can browse services and support tailored to your region.You can also explore specific senior placement service providers in Utah here: Utah Senior Placement ServicesSupporting Informed, Compassionate DecisionsChoosing a senior care community or service is one of the most important decisions a family can make. With the right resources and local guidance, the senior placement process doesnt have to be overwhelming. Utah families can take comfort in knowing that they have access to a variety of support tools and professionals ready to help every step of the way. If youre beginning the journey or helping a loved one transition, start with trusted resources like SeniorsBlueBook.com to explore your options with confidence.

Navigating Senior Placement in Southwest Florida: A Guide for Families and Caregivers

Helping You Find the Right Senior Living SolutionFinding the right senior living arrangement can be overwhelmingespecially when time, emotions, and complex care needs are involved. Thats where Senior Placement services come in. These professionals help families in Southwest Florida navigate the options available for senior housing and care, ensuring a more personalized and informed decision-making process.In this blog, well explore what senior placement means, why it matters, and how you can leverage local resources in Southwest Florida to support a smooth transition for your loved one. What Is Senior Placement?Senior placement refers to the process of assisting older adults and their families in finding appropriate senior living or care arrangements. Placement specialists evaluate an individuals medical, emotional, financial, and lifestyle needs to recommend suitable housing options such as:Independent living communitiesAssisted living facilitiesMemory care residencesSkilled nursing centersResidential care homesThe ultimate goal is to match the individual with a community or care setting that meets their unique circumstances and supports long-term well-being. Why Senior Placement Services Matter in Southwest FloridaSouthwest Florida is one of the top destinations for retirees, known for its sunny climate, high quality of life, and range of senior living options. But with so many choices available, it can be hard to know where to begin.Senior placement professionals in this region offer valuable insights, including:In-depth knowledge of local communities and care providersAssistance understanding costs and payment optionsPersonalized recommendations based on care needsGuidance through tours, applications, and transitionsEmotional support for families during difficult decisionsFor families juggling caregiving responsibilities and lifes other demands, these services offer much-needed clarity and peace of mind. How Does the Senior Placement Process Work?While every placement service varies slightly, most follow a similar structure: Initial Consultation A placement advisor learns about your loved ones health conditions, care preferences, and budget. Assessment and Matching Based on the evaluation, a shortlist of communities or providers is developed. Community Tours Families are guided through tours of the most suitable options. Support with Transition Advisors may assist with paperwork, moving logistics, and ongoing support after placement. Its important to note that many senior placement services are offered at no cost to the family. Instead, these professionals are often compensated by the communities they partner with, though neutral directories like Seniors Blue Book help ensure transparency and choice. Choosing the Right Senior Placement Support in Southwest FloridaAs with any important decision, its critical to work with professionals who are experienced, compassionate, and unbiased. While some services work with only a few communities, others offer a broader range of options.When considering a senior placement specialist, ask:Are they familiar with communities across Southwest Florida?How do they determine which communities are a good fit?Do they consider both medical and social needs in their recommendations?Do they provide support beyond the initial placement?You can begin your search and find helpful tools through the Seniors Blue Books trusted local directory: Browse Senior Resources in Southwest Florida Explore Senior Placement Services Near You The Benefits of Local ExpertiseSenior placement professionals with experience in Southwest Florida bring deep knowledge of the areas resources, licensing standards, and unique living environments. They can provide guidance on everything from hurricane safety plans in senior communities to proximity to hospitals and family members.Final Thoughts: Empowering Better DecisionsNavigating senior living options doesnt have to be stressful. With the right guidance, families can find safe, supportive, and engaging environments that honor their loved ones dignity and preferences. If youre exploring senior placement in Southwest Florida, take the first step by browsing trusted, local resources and directories that can help simplify your searchwithout pressure or bias.

View Details

Home Instead Senior Care - Beaver & Butler Counties

Non-Medical 22410 Perry Hwy, Zelienople, Pennsylvania, 16063

Compassionate In-Home Care for Seniors | Home InsteadAs our loved ones age, ensuring they receive the highest quality care becomes a top priority. Home Instead is a trusted provider of personalized, non-medical home care services designed to help seniors age gracefully in the comfort of their own homes. With a strong commitment to enhancing the well-being of older adults, Home Instead provides reliable, compassionate, and professional caregivers dedicated to maintaining independence, dignity, and a high quality of life for seniors.Why Choose Home Instead for Senior Home Care?A Trusted Leader in Senior CareHome Instead has been a leading provider of senior home care services for decades. Our highly trained caregivers offer personalized care solutions that help seniors remain safe and comfortable in familiar surroundings. Whether your loved one needs companionship, assistance with daily activities, or specialized Alzheimers and dementia care, Home Instead is here to provide expert support.Comprehensive In-Home Care ServicesOur in-home care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each senior, ensuring they receive the right level of care while maintaining their independence. Home Instead offers a wide range of services, including:Personal Care Assistance: Help with bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting to maintain personal hygiene and dignity.Companionship and Social Engagement: Engaging seniors in meaningful conversations, hobbies, and activities to prevent isolation and loneliness.Meal Preparation and Nutrition Support: Assistance with meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking to ensure balanced, healthy meals.Medication Reminders: Ensuring seniors take their prescribed medications on time to support health and wellness.Light Housekeeping: Assistance with daily household tasks such as laundry, dishes, and tidying up to create a clean, safe environment.Respite Care for Family Caregivers: Giving family caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring their loved ones receive quality care.Specialized Alzheimers and Dementia Care: Providing expert support for seniors experiencing cognitive decline, using proven techniques to enhance their quality of life.24-Hour and Overnight Care: Offering round-the-clock assistance for seniors who need constant monitoring and support.The Home Instead DifferenceHighly Trained and Compassionate CaregiversHome Insteads caregivers are carefully selected, extensively trained, and deeply committed to providing the highest level of care. Each caregiver undergoes a thorough background check and receives specialized training in senior care, including Alzheimers and dementia care, personal care assistance, and companionship services.Personalized Care Plans Tailored to Individual NeedsNo two seniors are alike, and their care should reflect their unique needs and preferences. Home Instead creates customized care plans that are flexible and adaptable, ensuring that seniors receive the appropriate level of support as their needs evolve over time.Aging in Place: The Comfort of HomeMany seniors prefer to remain in their homes rather than transition to an assisted living facility or nursing home. Home Instead makes aging in place possible by providing compassionate care that allows seniors to stay in a familiar and comfortable environment.Family Involvement and SupportAt Home Instead, we understand that family caregivers play a crucial role in their loved ones care journey. We work closely with families to ensure open communication, regular updates, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved ones are in good hands. Our respite care services also provide family caregivers with the opportunity to rest and recharge while ensuring their loved one receives the care they deserve.Who Can Benefit from Home Insteads Senior Care Services?Seniors Who Want to Maintain Their IndependenceHome Insteads services empower seniors to live independently by providing the necessary support for daily activities, personal care, and companionship.Family Caregivers Seeking Reliable SupportCaring for an aging loved one can be physically and emotionally demanding. Home Instead provides dependable respite care, allowing family caregivers to take a break while ensuring their loved ones receive exceptional care.Seniors with Alzheimers or DementiaOur specialized memory care services cater to seniors experiencing cognitive decline, using research-based techniques to provide a safe and structured environment while reducing stress and confusion.Seniors Recovering from Illness or SurgeryPost-hospitalization recovery can be challenging, especially for older adults. Home Insteads caregivers assist with daily activities, medication reminders, and mobility support to aid in a smooth recovery at home.The Benefits of Choosing Home Instead for Senior CareFlexible Scheduling: Whether your loved one needs part-time care, full-time assistance, or 24-hour supervision, Home Instead offers flexible care plans to accommodate their unique needs.Enhanced Safety and Security: Caregivers provide a watchful eye to prevent falls, assist with mobility, and create a secure home environment.Emotional and Social Support: Our caregivers build meaningful relationships with seniors, providing companionship that enhances emotional well-being.Peace of Mind for Families: Knowing that a trusted caregiver is providing top-quality care allows family members to focus on their own well-being while staying involved in their loved ones care journey.A Holistic Approach to Senior Care: We focus on overall well-being, including physical, emotional, and mental health, ensuring seniors enjoy a fulfilling and enriched life.Get Started with Home Instead TodayChoosing the right home care provider is a significant decision, and Home Instead is here to make the process as seamless as possible. Our team is ready to discuss your loved ones needs, answer any questions, and create a customized care plan that suits their lifestyle.With a reputation built on trust, compassion, and excellence, Home Instead is committed to providing high-quality senior care that enables older adults to live independently and comfortably in their own homes.Contact us today at 844-359-2283 to learn more about how Home Instead can help your loved one thrive with personalized, compassionate in-home care services.