The headline in the image is intentionally provocative: “12 nasty things you do in old age that everyone notices, but no one tells you.”

But aging does not make someone “nasty.” Many of the things people notice in an older adult—body odor, bad breath, slower movement, skin changes, repeated stories, or occasional accidents—can be normal consequences of aging, medication, reduced mobility, dental problems, or health conditions.

Some can be improved with simple habits. Others deserve medical attention.

Most importantly, these changes should be approached with dignity rather than embarrassment. Getting older is a normal part of life, and needing a little extra help with personal care does not mean someone has failed.

Here are 12 common changes that may become more noticeable with age.

1. Body odor can change

One of the most noticeable changes associated with aging can be a change in a person’s natural scent.

This does not necessarily mean an older person is dirty.

As skin ages, it produces different amounts of oils and becomes thinner and drier. Changes in skin oils can contribute to a different body scent. Scientists have also studied compounds such as 2-nonenal, which can form when certain skin oils undergo oxidation.

The smell is sometimes described as waxy, grassy, or slightly stale.

It can become more noticeable around areas where oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria accumulate, such as behind the ears, around the neck, and in skin folds.

What can help?

Regular gentle bathing, clean clothing, washing bedding and pillowcases, and paying attention to areas that are easily missed can reduce unpleasant odors.

However, excessive scrubbing is not the answer.

Older skin is more fragile and can become irritated by very hot water, harsh soaps, and aggressive exfoliation.

A mild cleanser and moisturizer are often better choices.

A sudden or dramatically different body odor should also not automatically be blamed on age. Certain infections, metabolic problems, medications, or other health conditions can change body odor.

2. Bad breath can become more common

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can affect people at any age.

In older adults, however, several factors can contribute to it.

One important factor is dry mouth.

Saliva helps wash food particles and bacteria away from the mouth. When there isn’t enough saliva, bacteria can accumulate more easily, increasing the risk of bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth discomfort.

Dry mouth can be associated with medications, dehydration, certain diseases, and medical treatments.

It is important to understand that dry mouth is not simply an unavoidable part of getting older.

If someone constantly has a dry mouth, they should discuss it with a dentist or healthcare professional.

Good oral hygiene is particularly important:

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between the teeth regularly.
Clean dentures properly if they are worn.
Drink appropriate amounts of water unless fluid restriction has been recommended.
Have regular dental examinations.
Don’t ignore persistent mouth sores or bleeding gums.

Persistent bad breath isn’t something an older person should simply accept as “old age.”