The University of Toronto released a study identifying a potential early warning signal for Alzheimer’s disease.
This could lead to earlier diagnoses for those who suffer from the disease, and also indicate cognitive impairment.
The research, published in Aging, Neuropsychology, and cognition, aimed to provide Alzheimer’s patients with a quicker assessment. The disease is often discovered late, making it more difficult to manage.
Jed Meltzer, a cognitive neuroscientist and the study’s author, explained that a lack of rhythm when speaking could be one sign of cognitive decline.
“Our results indicate that changes in overall speech rate may reflect changes in the brain,” Meltzer said.
The study analyzed 125 healthy participants between the ages of 18 and 90. researchers found that speech speed naturally changes with age, and this doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem.
However,speech fluency – how quickly people can resume a conversation after pausing – can be a sign of cognitive impairment.
“speech speed should be assessed as part of standard cognitive assessments to help doctors detect cognitive decline more quickly and help older adults take care of their brain health as they age,” Meltzer added.
The study’s authors hope their findings will be considered when evaluating patients and diagnosing those with Alzheimer’s or other cognitive impairments.
alzheimer’s is a progressive disease.
How to diagnose Alzheimer’s?
According to the Mayo Clinic, Alzheimer’s disease dementia is diagnosed through a doctor’s examination. The doctor evaluates symptoms,speaks with the patient’s acquaintances,and analyzes the patient’s behavior.
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