What change in taste perception is commonly experienced by older adults?

As individuals age, several physiological changes occur, particularly affecting the senses. A common experience among older adults is decreased sensitivity to taste. This reduced sensitivity can influence their food preferences, appetite, and overall nutritional intake.

Aging can lead to a decline in the number of taste buds as well as a decrease in saliva production, both of which are factors that can impair taste perception. Additionally, changes in olfaction (sense of smell), which frequently accompanies aging, can further diminish the experience of flavor, since taste and smell work together to create the overall perception of food.

This decreased sensitivity may lead older adults to seek out more intense flavors, such as salt or sugar, to achieve the same taste experience they had at a younger age. Understanding these changes is crucial for tailoring nutrition interventions that meet the dietary needs and preferences of older adults, thus supporting their overall health and quality of life.