As age increases, some elderly people may develop a unique yet not unpleasant smell, commonly known as “old people smell.” This phenomenon is mostly part of the normal aging process and poses no significant health risks, so family members need not overly worry. However, if it appears prematurely in one’s fifties, it might indicate accelerated aging and deserves attention.
The causes of “old people smell” are diverse:
On one hand, as age advances, skin gradually loosens, wrinkles increase, and the shedding of dead skin becomes more visible. If not cleaned promptly, dead skin can become a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in a distinct odor. Therefore, elderly individuals with poor personal hygiene habits may have a more noticeable body odor.
On the other hand, long-term smoking and alcohol consumption habits are more common among the elderly population, especially males. These habits not only leave a lasting tobacco and alcohol smell on clothing and bodies but also contribute to the formation of oral malodor, exacerbating the “old people smell.”
It’s worth noting that if the “old people smell” gives off a strong odor resembling rotten apples, it could be a sign of high blood sugar. High blood sugar accelerates the breakdown of proteins and fats, leading to abnormal odors. In such cases, timely testing and controlling blood sugar levels is necessary.
For non-pathological “old people smell,” improvement measures include:
– Enhancing skin care: maintain skin moisture, especially in dry seasons, hydrate appropriately, exfoliate gently regularly, manage bathing frequency properly, and maintain personal cleanliness.
– Abstaining from smoking and drinking: tobacco and alcohol not only directly enhance body odors but also pose health threats. Reducing or quitting them can benefit body odor improvement and overall health.
– Adjusting dietary structure: advocate a light diet, increase intake of vegetables and fruits, reduce high-fat foods, which can help alleviate the “old people smell” exacerbated by fat oxidation.
By adjusting the above lifestyle practices, one can to some extent alleviate or prevent the occurrence of “old people smell,” while promoting the overall health and well-being of the elderly.
