As we age, we become more aware of the changes happening in our bodies. Unfortunately, one of those changes can be a decline in our sense of smell.

While many people may think this is a normal part of the aging process, recent research suggests that it may be a red flag for something much more serious: dementia.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a general term that describes a decline in cognitive function that is severe enough to interfere with daily living.

It is not a specific disease, but rather a group of symptoms that can be caused by a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and vascular dementia.

What is the Connection Between Sense of Smell and Dementia?

Research has suggested that there may be a connection between a decline in sense of smell and the risk of developing dementia.

In fact, studies have found that people who have a poor sense of smell are more likely to develop dementia than those who have a normal sense of smell.

While the exact reason for this connection is still unclear, some researchers believe that the olfactory system, which is responsible for our sense of smell, may be affected by the same factors that contribute to the development of dementia, such as inflammation and the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain.

How Can Your Sense of Smell Be Tested?

If you are concerned about your sense of smell and its potential connection to dementia, there are several tests that can be done to evaluate your olfactory function.

The most common test is the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), which involves sniffing different scents and identifying them from a list of choices.

Another test is the Sniffin’ Sticks test, which uses a set of pens with different scents. Participants are asked to identify each scent, and their scores are compared to a normative database.

What Can You Do if You Have a Poor Sense of Smell?

If you have a poor sense of smell, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider, as it may be a symptom of an underlying condition that needs to be addressed. Your provider may refer you for further testing or recommend treatment options.

In addition to seeking medical attention, there are also some things you can do at home to improve your sense of smell. These include:.

Avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
Avoiding exposure to pollutants and other toxins
Breathing in essential oils or other pleasant scents to stimulate your olfactory system

The Bottom Line

While a decline in sense of smell is not necessarily a cause for alarm, it is important to be aware of the potential connection between a poor sense of smell and the risk of developing dementia.

If you are concerned about your olfactory function, speak with your healthcare provider and consider undergoing testing to evaluate your sense of smell.