Early Alzheimer's detection could be noticing one thing during your shower

Alzheimer's disease, the primary cause of dementia in older adults, gradually impairs memory and cognitive abilities. Common signs of dementia include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and challenges with everyday tasks.

However, Alzheimer's specialists have pinpointed a potential early symptom of dementia that could revolutionise the speed at which the condition is diagnosed. While there is currently no known cure, an early diagnosis can assist healthcare professionals in slowing its progression and reducing its impact.

Memory loss is frequently linked to dementia; however, experts from the University of Chicago have identified a significant decrease in the sense of smell as a possible early indicator. This discovery suggests that individuals may be able to detect Alzheimer's disease in its initial stages, particularly when they observe a reduced ability to recognise familiar smells during activities such as showering.

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The study is based on the connection between odour recognition and memory. The researchers analysed the olfactory function of 515 older adults, aiming to develop screening tests for the sense of smell similar to those used for vision and hearing evaluations, Surrey Live reports.

Such tests could prompt people to watch out for early warning signs, like not being able to smell their shampoo or shower gel as strongly while bathing, reports the Irish Mirror.

Jayant M Pinto, a surgery professor at the University of Chicago and an expert in olfactory and sinus disease, highlighted the significance of their findings: "This study provides another clue to how a rapid decline in the sense of smell is a really good indicator of what's going to end up structurally occurring in specific regions of the brain."

He further explained: "We were able to show that the volume and shape of grey matter in olfactory and memory-associated areas of the brains of people with rapid decline in their sense of smell were smaller compared to people who had less severe olfactory decline."

If you're concerned about your memory or suspect you might have dementia, it's recommended to see your GP. If you're worried about someone else's symptoms, encourage them to book an appointment with a GP and offer to accompany them.

An early diagnosis of dementia can be instrumental in planning for future care and treatment, and recognising symptoms early on is key. While there is no cure for dementia at present, early medical advice and intervention can significantly aid in managing the condition.