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Quantitative sensory testing in elderly: longitudinal study.
Luciana Alvarenga da Silva1, Omar Jaluul2, Manoel Jacobsen Teixeira3
1Universidade de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brasil.
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|December 21, 2018
Summary
Aging elders experience sensory decline, particularly in smell and touch, which is linked to existing health conditions. This highlights the connection between aging, sensory changes, and overall health in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Sensory changes are common in aging.
- The relationship between sensory decline and clinical factors in the elderly requires further investigation.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for geriatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess sensory characteristics in elderly patients within a geriatric service.
- To explore the association between these sensory changes and clinical aspects.
- To evaluate the impact of aging on sensory perception in older adults.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive longitudinal study was conducted.
- 36 healthy participants (both sexes) were enrolled.
- Evaluations included clinical assessment, Mini-Mental State Exam, and quantitative sensory testing.
Main Results:
- Significant changes in sensory thresholds were observed, including olfactory, gustatory (salty, sour, bitter), tactile, cold, and vibration senses.
- Mean corpuscular volume decreased, while mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration increased over time.
- Pre-existing morbidities were associated with altered sensory perception in the participants.
Conclusions:
- Sensory loss in aging individuals may be linked to the presence of comorbidities.
- This longitudinal study underscores the interplay between aging, health status, and sensory function.
- Findings suggest that clinical factors significantly influence sensory changes in the elderly.
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