Currently, over 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, a figure that has reached unprecedented levels.
The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which leads to a decline in memory and cognitive abilities. One way to detect Alzheimer’s is by observing changes in speech. Difficulties in this area can indicate a higher likelihood of developing the disease.
Researchers from Nottingham Trent University have identified five early symptoms of this condition that should never be overlooked.
Pauses, Hesitations, and Uncertainty
One of the key signs of Alzheimer’s disease is difficulty recalling specific words, often indicated by frequent or prolonged pauses. In such cases, the person struggles to remember a very familiar word.
Using Words Incorrectly
Individuals with Alzheimer’s may substitute the word they are trying to recall with something completely incorrect or only loosely related.
For example, instead of saying “dog,” they might use the name of another domestic animal, like “cat.” However, in the early stages of the disease, the substitution is more likely to be related to a broader or more general category. In this situation, it could be the word “animal,” as reported by Science Alert.
Discussing a Task Instead of Doing It
Patients facing this disease often struggle to complete tasks. Instead of carrying out the task, they may talk about their feelings regarding it, express doubts, or reminisce about their past abilities. A patient might say, “I’m not sure I can do this,” or “I used to do this better than others,” rather than getting down to work.
Less Diverse Vocabulary
A more subtle indicator of Alzheimer’s disease is the tendency to use simpler language, relying on a limited set of words. Patients often repeat the same verbs, nouns, and adjectives instead of utilizing a broader vocabulary.
Word-Finding Difficulties
Another early sign of Alzheimer’s is difficulty in finding the right words. This issue particularly affects naming items within specific categories, such as foods or body parts. As the disease progresses, patients find it increasingly challenging to locate the correct words that start with the same letter.
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The primary risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is age. After 65, the likelihood of developing this condition doubles every five years.
Moreover, one in twenty individuals diagnosed with this disease is under 65 years old. This is referred to as early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
While occasional forgetfulness is considered normal by doctors, a gradual decline in memory and speech, or incorrect word usage, can be early signs of the disease. Timely detection is especially crucial for individuals at higher risk, such as those with Down syndrome.