There is no evidence that aging changes taste and smell. However, studies have found that the number of areas where taste can be detected, or taste buds, decreases with age. The remaining taste buds also lose some of the ability to taste. As a person ages, he or she produces less saliva, which may also affect taste. Touch Finally, the sense of touch involves the ability to feel vibration, pressure, temperature, and pain.
Many studies report a decreased sense of touch with aging.
It is hard to tell whether the changes are due to growing older or simply reflect changes resulting from certain illnesses in the elderly. Regardless of the cause, many people notice changes in their sense of touch as they age. Anyone who thinks he or she might be experiencing such a change should be very careful around hot objects and in cold areas. This can help to prevent skin damage, such as burns or frostbite . Losses in any of the senses should be discussed with a healthcare provider.