Aging and sensory senescence

Abstract

Background: The aging process typically is associated with decline in function for the various senses. A decline in sensory ability may simulate an intellectual decline that is not present. Sensory decline can lead to depression, social isolation, and even to hallucinations.

Methods: I reviewed the medical literature via computer, focusing on recent findings.

Results: Sensory changes with aging are common yet often go unrecognized and untreated. Declines in sensory function often reflect the combined effect of age-related changes in both the sensory organ and the central nervous system processing of sensory information. Combinations of defects in several sensory modalities are often found in the older individual.

Conclusions: Correct diagnosis is important for management so that correctable causes of sensory decline are not overlooked.