Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter
OLD AGE is something we should embrace gracefully. However, sometimes it can be a drag. When you are not burdened down with all sorts of ailments you have to contend with what is known as the 'old man smell'. Old man smell is an old, withering aroma that is associated with older men (over 70 years old). Some of them often smell musky and carry an odour of stale urine.
Dr. Errol Williamson, general practitioner, said as men get older, they are unable to care for themselves as necessary. Very often, they are ill and are unable to wash themselves properly and regularly. Plus the high level of testosterone causes them to smell musky.
URINE SMELL
Another distinct body odour related to older men is the urine smell. Dr. Williamson noted that the urine smell is as a result of dribbling (seeping of urine on to clothing after urination). He explained that dribbling is caused by a disorder called prostate enlargement. This is when older men are unable to empty the bladder causing urinal seepage. "This disorder can be corrected by surgery removing the prostate or by taking medication," said Dr. Williamson.
"However, when they get older such as in their 80s and over, surgery may not be an option because of other illness," he continued.
Though 'old man smell' is associated with old age, it does not affect older women. In fact, when women reach the age of menopause their hormones start shutting down. "They no longer have odour forming because their oestrogen level decreases. Also, women are generally more tidy than men and they take better care of themselves," noted Dr. Williamson.
The doctor told Flair that there are several hygienic practices that they or their caregiver can follow to eliminate these unpleasant odour. Practices include:
1. Wear disposable undergarments that will alleviate the smell of urine.
2. Change clothing regularly.
3. Bathe regularly and use deodorant.
4. Keep hair short.
5. Visit dentist frequently, and if wearing dentures, soak them overnight in water.
Source: www.urbandictionary.com.
