The #1 Sign Of Pre-Dementia
When it comes to aging, one of the primary fears that many of us share is the fear of developing dementia. This deteriorative cognitive ailment can severely affect an individual’s quality of life, not to mention the quality of life of their loved ones.
According to the CDC, about 1 in 9 people aged 65 and over in the US suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, characterized by depleted nerve cells in the cerebral cortex of the brain. This ailment affects memory, language and reasoning, all of which are governed by this vital brain region.
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When it comes to dementia, early detection may help to zero in on any underlying causes, and possibly aid in the prevention of more severe symptoms. A new study, performed by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, along with Montefiore Medical Center, found that individuals who tested positive for pre-dementia were nearly twice as likely to develop dementia within the span of 12 years.
The Research
The method described by the researchers is a test to measure motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR), a sign of pre-dementia, which is characterized by the speed at which an individual walks, along with their complaints surrounding their cognitive functioning. The study involved just under 27,000 adults ages 60 or older, across 17 countries, who did not suffer from dementia or any disability. Of these individuals, 9.7 percent of them tested positive for MCR.
The researchers then focused on 4,812 people, and evaluated their health information from a 12-year time period. They found that the individuals who had tested positive for MCR were almost twice as likely to develop dementia within the 12 years.
Senior author Dr. Joe Verghese writes, “our assessment method could enable many more people to learn if they’re at risk for dementia, since it avoids the need for complex testing and doesn’t require that the test be administered by a neurologist.
The potential payoff could be tremendous — not only for individuals and their families, but also in terms of healthcare savings for society. All that’s needed to assess MCR is a stopwatch and a few questions, so primary care physicians could easily incorporate it into examinations of their older patients.”
The researchers were clear to note that walking slowly is not in itself a symptom of pre-dementia if it does not go hand-in-hand with cognitive complaints.
As far as dementia prevention, Dr. Verghese states, “even in the absence of a specific cause, we know that most healthy lifestyle factors, such as exercising and eating healthier, have been shown to reduce the rate of cognitive decline. In addition, our group has shown that cognitively stimulating activities – playing board games, card games, reading, writing and also dancing – can delay dementia’s onset.”
In a recent article, we explored research which found that exercising both the body and the mind, through a program which incorporated physical exercise, cognitive exercise and meditation showed promise in improving existing dementia symptoms. It follows that for prevention, keeping both the body and mind as active as possible may go far in staving off this illness.
Heart health may also be vitally important in the prevention of this disease. As we previously reported, research has found a correlation between heart disease and an increased risk of demential in older women. Eating a diet of whole, nutritious food, exercising daily and reducing your stress levels are all integral parts of keeping your cardiovascular system running smoothly.
If you wish to take an MCR test, talk to your physician about when and where it may be administered. While more research is likely coming, according to this study, it may give you some insight about your dementia risk.
What Is Pre-Dementia?
Pre-dementia is characterized by noticeable changes in memory, thinking, or judgment that are more pronounced than typical age-related forgetfulness. However, these changes are not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily life or independence.
For instance, someone with pre-dementia might forget recent conversations or struggle to find the right words more often than others their age but can still manage their daily activities effectively.
Common Signs of Pre-Dementia
- Memory Problems
- Forgetting appointments, recent events, or conversations.
- Repeating the same questions or stories within short periods.
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Struggling to focus on tasks, especially those requiring planning or organization.
- Word-Finding Challenges
- Frequently pausing during conversations to search for words.
- Mood or Behavioral Changes
- Increased irritability, depression, or anxiety without clear triggers.
- Spatial Awareness Issues
- Becoming disoriented in familiar places or struggling with directions.
Who Is at Risk for Pre-Dementia?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing pre-dementia, including:
- Age
Cognitive changes are more common after age 65. - Family History
Having a parent or sibling with dementia can increase risk. - Chronic Health Conditions
Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are linked to cognitive decline. - Lifestyle Choices
- Smoking and excessive alcohol use can harm brain health.
- Sedentary lifestyles may contribute to a decline in mental acuity.
- Brain Injuries
A history of head trauma can increase the likelihood of cognitive issues later in life.
How to Reduce the Risk of Progression
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk and improve cognitive function:
- Stay Physically Active
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promoting neural health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. - Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet
The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, has been shown to support cognitive function. - Engage in Mental Stimulation
Keep your mind active with puzzles, reading, or learning new skills. - Prioritize Social Connections
Staying socially active helps reduce stress and supports brain health. - Manage Chronic Conditions
Properly controlling diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol can reduce cognitive risks. - Get Quality Sleep
Sleep is essential for memory consolidation and brain repair. Aim for 7-8 hours per night. - Reduce Stress
Chronic stress can damage the brain over time. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga.
When to See a Doctor
If you or a loved one are experiencing noticeable cognitive changes, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Early detection of pre-dementia can lead to interventions that may slow progression. A doctor may perform cognitive tests, brain imaging, or blood work to identify potential causes and recommend appropriate treatment.
Looking Ahead
While pre-dementia can be concerning, it also offers an opportunity to take proactive steps to preserve brain health. By recognizing the signs early and adopting healthy habits, many people with pre-dementia can maintain a good quality of life and potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia.
If you’re concerned about cognitive health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support. Early action can make all the difference.
