In part one, I wrote about the characteristic odor associated with humans as they experience the process of aging, often referred to as “old people smell.” Several hypotheses are still under consideration concerning the exact cause (see part one), but if you care for or visit an elderly person, you already know it exists.

Elder care specialists have made some suggestions for counteracting this “aroma of aging.” These include regularly airing out living quarters and all fabric accessories such as bedspreads, throw pillows, and sofa cushions, which easily absorb this odor. Opening windows to allow fresh breezes to flow through bedrooms seems to be a thing of the past but can work wonders as a natural air freshener. While I prefer to eliminate rather than mask unpleasant smells, this may be a situation in which it is appropriate to utilize one of the myriad of products available to freshen the air and surface areas. Consider any allergies and avoid candles due to safety risks.

If the smell is particularly strong, it may be time to do a deep-down thorough cleaning and decluttering. Books, linens, drapes and clothes may have been around for years or even decades, collecting dust and dampness that produce a musty smell. Mold or mildew may even be present. Floors, walls and ceilings should be cleaned as well as furnishings and personal items.

Make sure your loved one has clean clothes on a daily basis. Encourage good hygiene practices such as regular baths or showers, frequent oral care and use of deodorant.

Researchers that attribute the odor to the chemical compound 2-nonenal, recommend observing healthy habits to reduce the severity. They advocate making sure your loved one stays hydrated, preferably by drinking plenty of water. You should also provide a healthy diet that is rich in fresh fruit and vegetables; support participation in suitable physical activity; avoid stressful situations; and facilitate a regular and plentiful sleep schedule.

In Japanese culture, where the elderly population is held in high regard and good hygiene is revered, the term “Kareishuu” has been adopted as a special word for old people smell. Companies there are producing products to help neutralize the odor. A popular ingredient is persimmon extract. The tannin in the fruit is thought to dissolve 2-nonenal in much the same way lemon juice attacks a fishy smell. Japanese green tea and astaxanthin (a reddish pigment that belongs to a group of chemicals called carotenoids and occurs naturally in certain algae and causes the pink color in salmon, lobster, shrimp etc.) are also used in these soaps and body washes.

Your loved ones may or may not be aware of their special scent. Be sensitive when addressing this issue. Even though the smell is characteristic of old age, research suggests that the odor is much less unpleasant than those produced by the young and middle-aged.

In fact, the conclusion of one study was that this aroma is not readily recognized because of its offensiveness, but its uniqueness when compared to body odors of young people. Some have even compared old people smell to old book smell, which many people find endearing.