As people age, they may lose the ability to distinguish flavors, but there are some strategies that can help address this issue. It is common for elderly individuals to reach a point where they no longer seek out food for its taste, but rather simply look for food that has any flavor. However, by making small adjustments such as changing the type of cutlery or learning how to enhance dishes with spices, it is possible to help seniors regain their enjoyment of eating.
After the age of 80, it is quite frequent to lose the ability to distinguish flavors, but certain strategies can help remedy the problem. Various conditions can lead to a disturbance in taste among elderly individuals (and not only): “Upper respiratory tract infections, particularly viral ones, oral cavity diseases such as gingivitis, caries, and many other illnesses, as well as different medications are often responsible,” explains an expert. The alterations in taste are conditions that can expose individuals over the age of 80 to the risk of malnutrition, both due to deficiencies (malnutrition) and excess (overweight or obesity).
The perception of sour and bitter tastes diminishes, while the perception of sweet taste is maintained for a longer period. “The Italian Medicines Agency reports that 75% of adverse events from drug therapies are represented by altered taste perception,” the expert continues. “In addition to this, normal aging processes result in a reduction of taste cells, and olfactory alterations are even more frequent than taste alterations.
Small adjustments can be very helpful. Consulting with a doctor to modify the type of medication where possible, and correcting any nutritional deficiencies such as zinc and vitamin B12, as well as improving oral hygiene, can make a significant difference.”