SPLENDOR-OA; Scents of Progress: Leveraging a Novel Device for Olfactory Training in Older Adults
Johns Hopkins University
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if ScentCare, a novel olfactory training device and accompanying companion web-based application, will lead to improved olfactory and well-being outcomes in elderly patients with Olfactory Dysfunction (OD). The main question it aims to answer is: \- What effect does the olfactory training device (ScentCare) and accompanying companion web-based application have on olfaction? Researchers will compare ScentCare to solving Sudoku puzzles to see the effects of olfactory training using this novel device on olfaction. Previous studies have used Sudoku puzzles when studying the effect of smell training. Since smell training is thought to work by stimulating and engaging higher order cognition, Sudoku is a suitable activity for participants in the control group since it serves as a correlate with similar degree of stimulation. Participants will: * Use ScentCare (intervention) or solve Sudoku puzzles (control) twice daily for 3 months. * Visit the clinic twice, once upon enrollment and once three months later. * Complete a formal smell test using Sniffin' Sticks smell test at the beginning of the study and again at the end of the study (3 months) during the initial and follow up visit. * Complete questionnaires at the beginning of the study and again at the end of the study (3 months) during the initial and follow up visit.
Description
This research is being done to better understand the efficacy of an investigational device and its companion phone application (together called "ScentCare") in treating olfactory dysfunction. Although the sense of smell is commonly overlooked, it is a unique and special human sensory function that has implications for quality of life, such as the enjoyment of food and nutrition or the ability to perceive dangers, such as smoke or noxious fumes. Although smell training is a well-established rehabilitation treatment for people with olfactory dysfunction (OD) or loss of smell, no standardized sm…