To diagnose someone with dementia, doctors typically conduct blood tests and brain scans while obtaining a detailed history of symptoms. However, if you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing memory and cognitive issues, there are simple tests that can be done at home to indicate potential signs of dementia. Dr. Bing, a board-certified neurologist, provided five tests that assess the risk of dementia. These tests include the ‘Flamingo’ test, the smell test, the clock drawing test, the dual task gait test, and the verbal fluency test. Each test assesses different cognitive functions that can be affected by dementia, such as balance, sense of smell, spatial memory, executive function, attention, and language abilities.
One of the tests recommended by Dr. Bing is the ‘Flamingo’ test, where individuals are asked to stand on one leg for a certain amount of time. This test evaluates balance and motor coordination, with difficulty standing on one leg for at least 30 seconds being linked to a higher risk of dementia. Additionally, a poor sense of smell can also be an early indicator of dementia, as problems with smell may suggest neurodegeneration. Drawing a clock from memory can be a quick and effective way to assess cognitive abilities such as memory, visual-spatial ability, comprehension, and concentration. Difficulty with spatial organization, attention, and planning while drawing a clock could indicate early signs of dementia.
The dual task gait test, which involves walking while performing a cognitive task, can indicate problems with executive function, memory, or attention. Difficulty with this task may suggest cognitive decline. Changes in verbal fluency, such as struggling to recall words within a set time frame, can also be an indicator of cognitive decline in certain brain regions affected by diseases like Alzheimer’s or frontotemporal dementia. Making lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, engaging in social activities, managing health conditions, protecting eyesight and hearing, and wearing a helmet to prevent traumatic brain injuries, may help reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Research has shown that engaging in healthy behaviors, particularly in mid-life, can lower the risk of developing dementia. Regular exercise, moderation in alcohol consumption, avoidance of smoking, participation in social activities, management of health conditions, and protection of eyesight and hearing are all ways to potentially reduce the risk of dementia. Traumatic brain injuries have also been linked to the build-up of substances associated with Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing the importance of wearing helmets to prevent such injuries. By implementing these lifestyle changes and engaging in preventive measures, individuals may be able to lower their risk of developing dementia and maintain overall brain health.
