Who do old people smell of urine?

Answer 1

Not all old people smell. Many old people who DO smell, however, get the smell from medications they have to take, or the old (yucky smelling) combo of Ben-gay and baby-powder. It can also come from decaying teeth, not taking baths regularly (because they can't do it on their own), not washing their clothes, and not cleaning their possessions. Another reason why old people smell is because they don't eat enough fresh food. When you only eat cooked food, toxins build up in your body, are secreted through sweat, and then emit a foul odor. The same effect could be caused by not exercising enough, because exercise helps eliminate toxins, that are then washed off in a shower. It could also be caused by moth balls, but moth balls aren't as prominent as they used to be. Many Grandpa's I know smell like old spice shaving lotion, good quality pipe tobacco, and cinnamon tooth paste. Gandma's smell of sunlight soap, lilacs or lily of the valley purfume and fresh baked bread. And when you need someone to comfort you, they are the smells of safety. Your question generalizes and is totally unfair.

Answer 2

in most cases it's an odour on the skin of older people. they emit part of an essential fatty acid Omega 7, which decays on the skin surface.

for my nose 'old folks' smell' is more like a combination of stale cucumbers and rancid butter; but to an extent, everyone's perception is a little different.

the best solution is frequent and thorough bathing with mild unscented soaps or cleansers -- in cool/moderate climates, elderly people bathe very infrequently, sometimes once a week or more -- in tropical climates it's normal practice to bathe daily, often 2-3 times each day, so there is no chance for the bacteria and EFA's to build up to the point where they become a problem.

talcum / baby powder is not very effective and actually encourages bacterial / fungal growth, thus exacerbating the problem.

perfumes and essential oils can cover the smell, but unfortunately most elderly people overdo the application, as their sense of smell has dulled over the years -- it's best to change/alternate your fragrance about once a year, and only use the same amount (ie. no more than 1 or 2 puffs).

Note that unpleasant smells from bodies are often an indicator of a pathology or illness.

Answer 3

• Not all old people smell of urine, but some can. The body is breaking down and they can have urinary tract infections; loss of muscle control due to age; kidney problems and some medications may cause them to lose control and they may often wet their bed or themselves. If the elderly person is alone they may not be able to keep up their own hygiene and this is the time the family either needs to bring in nursing care or they may have to put the elderly person into a nursing home.