Getting older is inevitable, but it’s essential to distinguish between normal aging changes and cognitive decline. Approximately 7 million Americans live with dementia, which may double by 2060. Experts stress that mild cognitive impairment can be a precursor to dementia, characterized by difficulty using cars, getting lost while driving familiar routes, or struggling with daily tasks.
Dementia encompasses various forms of cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Physical symptoms associated with dementia include:
1. Trouble walking and balancing due to decreased brain power processing sensory inputs.
2. Posture changes, feet shuffling, and slow walking speed.
3. Unexplained changes in taste and smell that may indicate Lewy body dementia.
4. Swallowing problems, potentially leading to aspiration pneumonia.
5. Bladder control issues, such as incontinence.
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment management and preparation for the future. Innovations in dementia treatments are underway, including biomarker checks in blood or spinal fluid to determine disease type.
Experts emphasize the importance of paying attention to signs of cognitive decline, regardless of age, and consulting a doctor if changes occur. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a nutritious diet (e.g., MIND diet), regular exercise, socialization, and managing chronic conditions, individuals can lower their risk of dementia or slow disease progression.
Source: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/physical-symptoms-of-dementia_l_692f4f9ce4b017c8f3fac047