The Aromatic Aspect of Aging in Elderly People Can Be Scientifically Defended

In a study published by the Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine in 2010, researchers focused on the mysterious phenomenon known as the "old people smell." This study, however, did not detect 2-nonenal in younger participants, a substance that is believed to be responsible for the aging odor.

The aging odor is unique to the skin of older individuals. The process that creates this byproduct involves air oxidation and metabolization by flora bacteria on the skin. This results in an off-putting grassy, greasy odor, reminiscent of candle wax or old pomade.

The study did not discuss any potential solutions or ways to reduce the production of the 2-nonenal byproduct. It also did not mention any other byproducts or substances related to the aging odor, nor did it indicate whether the older participants were all 40 years and older.

Lipid peroxidation, the oxidation of carbon-carbon double bond lipids, mostly polyunsaturated fatty acids, is the process that produces 2-nonenal. Humans, it seems, are particularly adept at detecting the scent of fine wine, but the "old people smell" can be a different story.

Interestingly, the human sense of smell is better than some animals in certain aspects. In fact, a superhuman smelling ability exists that could potentially save lives. An example of this can be seen in Joy Milne, a woman who can detect Parkinson's disease by smell. She has the ability to identify the distinctive scent of 2-nonenal, the same substance responsible for the aging odor, in the sweat of individuals with Parkinson's disease.

The study by the Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine did not specify the exact age range of the younger participants, but it did reveal that 2-nonenal was detected in 69% of participants who were 40 years and older. The "old people smell" remains a common part of aging, but understanding its origin may lead to future solutions for reducing its presence.