A recent study conducted by the University of Cambridge and published in Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association suggests that individuals who are at higher risk for developing dementia may exhibit subtle yet noticeable cognitive impairments up to nine years before receiving a formal diagnosis. The study examined data from the U.K. Biobank and found that patients were exhibiting cognitive issues before symptoms were severe enough to prompt a diagnosis. These impairments were evident across various cognitive aspects and could be detected in individuals over 50 or those who have high blood pressure or insufficient exercise. Detecting these early warning signs can lead to earlier intervention, reducing the risk of developing dementia. If you're concerned about identifying early signs of dementia, read on to learn more.
1) Detecting Early Indications of Dementia
A recent study revealed that specific cognitive impairments can be identified years before individuals receive an official dementia diagnosis. These impairments include difficulty with problem-solving, remembering lists of numbers, slower reaction times, and poorer memory, particularly in individuals who later developed Alzheimer's disease. The study also found that individuals who went on to develop dementia were more likely to have experienced a fall in the year leading up to their diagnosis compared to healthy adults. These findings were based on cognitive tests conducted five to nine years prior to diagnosis, highlighting the potential for early detection and intervention in dementia cases.
2) Positive Developments for the Elderly
For individuals who may be experiencing early indications of dementia, the results of the recent study may provide some reassurance. Dr. Tim Rittman, a researcher at the University of Cambridge, notes that there is natural variation in cognitive ability among healthy individuals, so it's important not to be overly concerned if one struggles with certain cognitive tasks, such as recalling numbers. However, Rittman recommends that anyone who is experiencing memory or recall issues, or who has concerns about their cognitive abilities, should speak with their general practitioner for guidance and support.
3) Intervening at an Earlier Stage
The ability to identify patients at higher risk of developing dementia may provide physicians with an opportunity to intervene earlier, delaying the onset of symptoms. Currently, effective treatments for dementia are limited, and the condition is often only diagnosed once symptoms become apparent. Dr. Tim Rittman notes that clinical trials for treatments typically recruit patients with an established diagnosis, which limits the effectiveness of the interventions. However, identifying individuals who are at risk earlier on may increase the chances of successfully evaluating the efficacy of drugs. David Thomas, Head of Policy at Alzheimer's Research UK, agrees that intervening at the earliest stages of dementia is the best approach to slow the progression of the disease. However, detecting brain function changes that occur before symptoms become noticeable requires testing that is not routinely offered by health services.
4) Feasibility of Early Screening
The study's findings offer the potential for early screening of patients at a higher risk of developing dementia. Dr. Richard Oakley, Associate Director of Research at the Alzheimer's Society, sees the possibility of screening programs that identify at-risk individuals who may benefit from early interventions, as well as individuals suitable for clinical trials of new dementia treatments. With some individuals exhibiting memory and cognitive issues up to nine years before receiving a formal diagnosis, early screening and intervention are crucial. Dr. Carol Manning, Director of Memory Disorders Neuroclinical Trials for the University of Virginia Department of Neurology, stresses the importance of receiving an accurate diagnosis to ensure individuals receive proper treatment, as some dementias and conditions are treatable.
5) Actions You Can Take
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that, at present, there is no proven approach to prevent Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Nevertheless, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk of developing these conditions by leading a healthy lifestyle. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood sugar and high blood pressure, staying mentally and physically active, staying connected with family and friends, getting enough sleep, treating hearing problems, avoiding head injuries, and refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Verna R. Porter, the director of programs for dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and neurocognitive disorders at Providence Saint John's Health Center, emphasizes the importance of the concept of cognitive reserve. This principle posits that the brain operates under the "use it or lose it" principle, meaning that inactive brain cells lose function over time. A healthy, high-capacity brain with many cognitive connections is more likely to maintain healthy cells and avoid cognitive pruning.