A new Australian study is  investigating if memory loss can be prevented by training people’s brains to remember smells.

The research, lead by Deakin University Psychology School’s Doctor Alex Bahar-Fuchs, is attempting to prove deep-seated link between our olfactory senses and our ability to retain memories.

Dr Bahar-Fuchs told Gary Adshead on 6PR Mornings it may seem strange, but there’s strong evidence of smelling being a big component of brain activity.

“Despite being quite primitive and often a little bit neglected, it is actually very important for our survival and has a lot of critical functions,” Dr Bahar-Fuchs said.

Press PLAY to hear more about how our sense of smell could unlock our memories