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FOR KIDS: The smell of old people
Tests show that older adults have a distinct odor, but it isn't bad
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Tests show that older adults have a distinct odor, but it isn't bad

By Stephen Ornes

Web edition: June 15, 2012

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A new study shows the elderly have a distinct smell, described by some volunteer sniffers as "earthy."
© Creativestock

When most people talk about "old people smell," they're complaining about something unpleasant. But in a new study, scientists report that the scent of the elderly isn't that bad. In fact, it's rather pleasant, at least compared to the intense odor of a middle-aged man. Volunteer judges used words like "earthy" or "mild" to describe the elderly scent.

Visit the new Science News for Kids website and read the full story: The smell of old people

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R. Ehrenberg. Youngsters can sniff out old people's scent. Science News Online, May 30, 2012. [Go to]

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