Olfactory Characterization and Training in Older Adults: Protocol Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Immunology

Background:

• Olfactory dysfunction is common in older adults, impacting quality of life.
• Very old adults (≥75 years) represent a growing population with unique health needs.
• Non-invasive interventions for olfactory health are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess olfactory function and the impact of olfactory training in healthy very old adults.
• To evaluate changes in cognitive tasks, quality of life, mood, immune status, and functional capacity.
• To explore the potential of olfactory precision medicine and immunomodulatory nasal therapies.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study with 180 participants (≥75 years) in three groups: hospitalized control (CH), ambulatory control (CA), and experimental odor training (EOT).
• 12-week olfactory training (OT) intervention for the EOT group.
• Olfactory capacity assessed using the Sniffin Sticks Test (SST) - Threshold, Discrimination, and Identification (TDI) extended version. Secondary outcomes include cognitive, quality of life, mood, immune, and functional assessments.
• Immune fitness characterization and proteome profiling of olfactory epithelium (OE) cultured ex vivo.

Main Results:

• The study protocol is presented, outlining the methodology for assessing olfactory training effects.
• Primary endpoint: change in olfactory capacity (TDI score) from baseline to 12 weeks.
• Secondary endpoints: changes in cognitive, quality of life, mood, immune, and functional parameters.

Conclusions:

• The study aims to provide evidence for olfactory precision medicine and immunomodulatory nasal therapies.
• Olfactory training may improve olfactory function, cognitive health, and quality of life in very old adults.
• This research will enhance understanding of olfactory function in the elderly and promote health recovery.