Changes in body odor are a normal part of aging, but that doesn’t mean persistent or unusual odor should simply be ignored. Hormonal changes, medications, sweating, oral health, skin conditions, and changes in hygiene routines can all play a role.
Sometimes, however, the cause is surprisingly simple: an everyday habit that has gradually become part of a person’s routine.
Here are eight habits worth checking.
1. Wearing the Same Clothes Too Long
Even when clothing doesn’t look dirty, sweat, skin oils, and bacteria can accumulate in fabric.
Bras, undershirts, socks, nightwear, and other garments that sit close to the skin can develop odors particularly quickly.
Try this: Change underwear and other sweat-prone clothing regularly and wash garments according to their care instructions.
2. Forgetting to Dry Skin Properly
Moisture trapped in skin folds can create an environment where bacteria and fungi thrive.
Areas such as the underarms, beneath the breasts, groin, and between the toes can be especially vulnerable.
After bathing, gently dry these areas rather than leaving them damp.
3. Not Drinking Enough Water
Older adults may sometimes drink less because they don’t feel thirsty as often or want to avoid frequent bathroom trips.
Dehydration itself isn’t necessarily a direct cause of generalized body odor, but it can contribute to dry mouth and concentrated urine, which can make certain odors more noticeable.
Drinking adequate fluids throughout the day can help, unless a healthcare professional has advised you to restrict fluids.
4. Neglecting Oral Hygiene
Bad breath is one of the most common sources of unpleasant odor.
Brushing twice daily, cleaning between the teeth, cleaning dentures properly, and maintaining regular dental care can help.
Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene deserves attention because dental disease, dry mouth, reflux, and other conditions can sometimes contribute.
5. Reusing Towels Without Washing Them
A damp towel can collect bacteria, skin cells, and body oils.
If the towel doesn’t dry completely between uses, it can eventually develop a musty smell that transfers back onto freshly washed skin.
Allow towels to dry thoroughly and wash them regularly.
6. Ignoring Shoes and Socks
Feet contain many sweat glands, and shoes can trap heat and moisture.
Wearing the same shoes continuously without allowing them to dry can encourage odor-causing microorganisms.
Change socks regularly, let shoes air out, and keep feet clean and dry.
If there is persistent itching, peeling, cracking, or a strong odor from the feet, a fungal infection may be involved.
7. Applying Fragrance Instead of Washing
Perfume, body spray, or scented lotion can temporarily mask an odor without addressing its source.
Using more fragrance can sometimes make the combination of perfume and body odor even more noticeable.
Regular bathing, clean clothing, and addressing the underlying cause are generally more useful than simply covering an odor.
8. Avoiding Medical or Dental Checkups
Sometimes persistent odor isn’t caused by a hygiene habit at all.
A noticeable change in body odor, breath, urine odor, or vaginal odor can occasionally be associated with an infection, medication, metabolic condition, dental problem, or another health issue.
A new, persistent, or unusually strong odor—especially when accompanied by symptoms such as pain, itching, discharge, fever, unexplained weight loss, or changes in urination—should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Aging Doesn’t Mean You Have to Live With Bad Odor
Body odor can change as we get older, partly because of hormonal and skin changes. But persistent unpleasant odor isn’t something an older woman simply has to accept.
Simple habits—clean clothing, proper bathing and drying, good oral care, adequate hydration, clean towels, foot care, and regular medical and dental checkups—can make a significant difference.
Most importantly, don’t feel embarrassed about asking for help. If an odor suddenly changes or doesn’t improve with normal hygiene, finding the underlying cause is more important than trying to hide it.