This may be related to loss of nerve endings in the nose. Studies about the cause of decreased sense of taste and smell with aging have conflicting results. Some studies have indicated that normal aging by itself produces very little change in taste and smell. Rather, changes may be related to diseases, smoking, and other environmental exposures over a lifetime. Regardless of the cause, decreased taste and smell can lessen your interest and enjoyment in eating.
Some people become less aware of personal hygiene when the sense of smell is decreased.
Enjoyment of your environment may be less. Sometimes, changes in the way food is prepared, such as a change in the spices used, can help. The sense of touch also includes awareness of vibrations and pain. The skin, muscles, tendons, joints, and internal organs have receptors that detect touch, temperature, or pain. Your brain interprets the type and amount of touch sensation.