A new rapid detection threshold method for use with older adults: Reducing fatigue whilst maintaining accuracy

• We considered the new rapid detection threshold method.
• This required fewer samples to undertake the taste test then standard stair case method.
• This could distinguish between taste ability of younger and older populations.
• This could distinguish between taste ability hospitalised and healthy populations.
• Reversals in the rapid detection threshold are likely to increase accuracy compared to ascending series method.

Taste and smell detection threshold measurements are frequently time consuming especially when the method involves reversing the concentrations presented to replicate and improve accuracy of results. These multiple replications are likely to cause sensory and cognitive fatigue which may be more pronounced in elderly populations. A new rapid detection threshold methodology was developed that quickly located the likely position of each individuals sensory detection threshold then refined this by providing multiple concentrations around this point to determine their threshold. This study evaluates the reliability and validity of this method. Findings indicate that this new rapid detection threshold methodology was appropriate to identify differences in sensory detection thresholds between different populations and has positive benefits in providing a shorter assessment of detection thresholds. The results indicated that this method is appropriate at determining individual as well as group detection thresholds.