Final answer:
The sense of smell declines with age especially after 50, leading to age-related anosmia due to the decreased regeneration of sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium. This change can have dietary and health implications for the elderly.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sense of smell declines with age, with a more noticeable loss occurring in the elderly population. Furthermore, this decline is more significant in individuals who have been exposed to certain environments or substances due to their occupational choices. The biological basis for this change is rooted in the olfactory system, where sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium have a limited lifespan and are replaced regularly. However, the ability to regenerate these neurons diminishes with age, leading to a condition known as age-related anosmia.
This decrease in the sense of smell can affect the taste perception and dietary habits of the elderly, potentially leading to increased sodium intake through excessive salting of food, which in turn can raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases due to higher blood pressure.