1 Aging and taste Helping residents cope with sensory declines March 2016

2 How taste and smell decline Starting around age 50, people begin to lose taste buds. Saliva production declines, making it more difficult to swallow. Smell-detecting nerve endings in the nose degrade. The body produces less mucus, which helps to trap odors in the nose.

3 Challenges to sensory declines Poor nutrition Reduction in quality of life Inability to smell danger signs, such as smoke or gas Depression

4 Medical conditions contribute to sensory declines Cancer Parkinson’s disease Alzheimer's disease Sinus and nasal problems Certain medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease

5 Helping residents at mealtimes Create an inviting dining environment. Seat residents with others whose company they enjoy. Dim the lighting and play relaxing music. Pay attention to the temperature of foods. Add flavor with spices, citrus juice, or vinegar. Ask what types of foods the resident enjoys. Try offering different texture experiences.

6 Helping residents throughout the day Notice what sensory experiences a resident enjoys, and try to repeat them. Avoid any smells or tastes that make a resident feel agitated. Do your best to remove foul-smelling odors such as soiled linens as quickly as possible.