Episode Title: I Can’t Smell My Coffee or Taste My Food Anymore: What’s Dementia Got to Do with It?

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Dementia Caregiver’s Corner Podcast, we explore a lesser-known but deeply important aspect of dementia: olfactory impairment also known as the loss of smell.

My guest, Duncan Boak, co-founder and CEO of SmellTaste, the UK’s leading charity for people affected by smell and taste disorders, shares his lived experience of losing his sense of smell after a head injury. Together, we discuss the critical links between smell loss and dementia, safety concerns, emotional wellbeing, and the vital support networks available to those living with sensory changes.

Duncan also talks about his contribution to the new book A New Approach to Dementia: Examining Sensory and Perceptual Impairment, shedding light on how changes in smell and taste impact older adults and people living with dementia.

3 Main Discussion Points

His Personal Journey – Duncan shares his lived experience of losing his sense of smell after a severe head injury and how it shaped his advocacy work.

Smell, Memory & Dementia – Exploring the link between olfactory impairment, taste changes, and dementia, including risks, hallucinations, and daily challenges.

Support & Advocacy – The work of Smell Taste and Duncan’s contribution to a new book highlighting sensory impairments in dementia care.

3 Key Takeaways

Smell is more than a sense – it shapes memory, emotions, safety, and quality of life.

Olfactory impairment is common in dementia but often overlooked, leading to risks like unsafe eating, missed dangers (fires, gas), or hallucinations.

Support is available – TasteSmell provides resources and advocacy for people with smell and taste disorders, including those living with dementia and their caregivers.

Resources Mentioned

https://www.smelltaste.org.uk/team/duncan-boak/

A New Approach to Dementia: Examining Sensory and Perceptual Impairment (a Well researched book edited by Professor. Andrea Tales, Professor. Jan Kremláček and Dr. Emma Richards