How Your Sense of Smell Could Protect—or Harm—Your Memory

The sense of smell plays a far greater role in memory and brain health than many realise. New research shows that simple daily activities—like smelling coffee or perfume—could help protect against memory loss. Meanwhile, studies link a weakened sense of smell to serious conditions, including Alzheimer’s and dementia. The connection between smell and memory runs deep. The olfactory system, which processes scents, sends signals directly to the hippocampus—the brain’s memory centre. This link explains why strong smells often trigger vivid recollections.

A 2024 study revealed that olfactory decline is tied to 139 neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and dementia. Earlier research from 2016 also found that master sommeliers, who constantly train their sense of smell, develop thicker memory-related brain regions. Some scientists now believe this could make them more resistant to conditions like Alzheimer’s.

For those who lose their sense of smell, recovery isn’t always guaranteed. A 2023 study showed that 24% of COVID-19 patients with smell loss only partially regained it, while 3% never improved. However, treatments like smell retraining therapy (SRT) can help. A recent trial even suggested that regular cooking classes might restore smell more effectively than standard SRT.

Memory loss remains a major concern for many. Over half of the participants in a Global Brain Health Institute survey admitted they feared losing their memory as they aged. The evidence is clear: a strong sense of smell supports brain health, while its decline raises risks. Simple habits—like enjoying aromatic foods or practising smell exercises—could offer protection. For those with impaired smell, targeted training may still help recover function and safeguard memory.