The Decline of Taste
Home Care in Prince William County VA
Taste buds, those tongue, throat and roof of mouth receptors that allow you to experience tastes and the difference between flavors that are sweet, salty, sour and bitter, die off as you age. The first
flavors to go are the salty and sweet ones. Most people start their lives with approximately 10,000 taste buds which start to diminish after the age of 50. In addition to the loss of taste, a diminished sense of smell is prominent in those over 60. The decrease in the number of sensor cells that detect aromas becomes increasingly significant with age. In fact, up to thirty percent of Americans between the ages of 70 and 80 have lost some of this important sense. The sense of smell is also intricately linked to the flavors of food, with aroma being a contributing factor. Often, it is loss of smell, and not taste, which causes a diminished food flavor.
When Senses Decline
Unfortunately, the decline in these senses can produce a loss of interest in food. This is particularly troubling for seniors that may already be consuming less due to medications, digestion issues, loss of appetite, or trouble with teeth. Making sure that your parent’s food is as flavorful and aroma-filled as possible helps get the attention of the remaining sensors. Adding herbs to fresh and healthy food is a suggested way to increase both these attributes. Not only can they help increase your loved one’s appetite, they are, in many cases, good for them too.
Herbs to Consider
- Rosemary is an aromatic herb that is high in iron, calcium and vitamin B6. It is known to improve memory, boost the immune system and diminish muscle pain. It is a great addition to eggs, chicken and bread.
- Garlic has been used since ancient times to ward off evil and various pests. It is high in manganese, vitamins B6 and C, as well as the mineral selenium. It also boosts the immune system and is known for its ability to lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels. Its pungent smell and distinct taste helps stimulate diminished senses. It can be used in almost any dish and is a well-known addition to pasta, chicken, fish, rice and Chinese preparations.
- Lemon and pepper seasoning is a combination that adds a distinct flavor and scent. It is commonly used with fish, chicken and other proteins.
Other foods to consider adding to your parent’s diet are those with strong flavor profiles. This would include Mexican foods which tend to be on the spicier side and Indian foods that are loaded with flavor derived from curry, turmeric and other spices. Once you find a flavor profile that your parent enjoys, be sure to include it a few times a week.
Home Care Provider
A home care provider can assist with the daily activities of living. They can also go grocery shopping for healthy foods and aromatic herbs. They can prepare meals and share them with your parent. An important part to enjoying and partaking in meals is the camaraderie that accompanies mealtime. Many times, home care providers and those they care for become the closest of companions due to shared meals and conversations.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional home care in Prince William County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 369-6677. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities
Resources:
https://nihseniorhealth.gov/problemswithtaste/aboutproblemswithtaste/01.html
www.agingcare.com/articles/when-elderly-lose-sense-of-smell-133880.htm
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