Olfactory Dysfunction Associated with Cognitive Decline in an Elderly Population.

Background: In many neurological disorders, including Alzheimer disease, early olfactory dysfunction is observed.

Objective: In order to determine if deficits in olfactory memory are present in the elderly and if olfactory dysfunction correlates with cognitive impairment in the aging population, olfactory testing has been done on seniors from the NuAge cohort accepting to participate in the Olfactory Response Cognition and Aging (ORCA) secondary sub-study. The t-Mini Mental Statement Examination and the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status tests were done to assess cognition levels.

Results: Overall, 94% of the ORCA cohort displayed olfactory dysfunction. Deficits in olfactory memory were also present. A correlation was observed between olfactory function and cognitive test scores. Moreover, in women who smoked, there was an association between olfactory memory and cognitive scores.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that olfactory dysfunction may predict impending cognitive decline and highlights the need for olfactory training in seniors to improve olfaction and overall well-being.