Smell training is also effective in older patients
Reviewed by Joanna Stephens

Olfactory loss is a common problem with a significant impact on quality of life. It has been demonstrated that olfactory training (OT) improves olfactory function in younger patients, but this study focuses in on patients aged 45 years and older. The researchers used the validated Sniffin’ Sticks method of measuring olfactory function in the 29 patients who were treated, and although there was a high dropout rate of 13 patients, they were able to demonstrate an improvement in smell function for 44% of the cohort. This number might be perceived as relatively low, but in a field where there are almost no other therapeutic options, it is encouraging.

A Pilot Study of Olfactory Training in Older Hyposmic Adults.
Lamira JM, Solaer ZM, Schlosser RJ.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RHINOLOGY & ALLERGY
2019;33(6):650-6.