The 60-second writing task that can reveal the early signs of dementia... how do you perform?
A simple test can help uncover if you are at risk of memory-robbing dementia, research suggests.
The 60-second test, which only requires a pen, paper and timer, can pick up early signs of cognitive decline considered a precursor to dementia.
It involves picking a large category, with common examples being types of fruit, species of animal, or TV shows. A person then tries to write down as many examples they can think of within the allotted time.
Experts say that you should be able to name at least 15 items and ideally more than 21.
A 2007 study published in the Journal of Psychiatry, said that: 'If he or she cannot name 15 or more objects, the patient is likely to be cognitively impaired and the likelihood that he or she has Alzheimer's disease may be 20 times higher than if a patient can name 15 animals or more.'
A 2022 study of 69 adults by American researchers found that scores in the test did get lower as people aged.
But crucially worse performance was related to the levels of amyloid-β, a peptide found in the body which is considered a sign of Alzheimer's.
Other similar tests can also be used to identify potential signs of dementia. One of the most famous is the analogue clock drawing test.
It involves asking a person to draw a clock face on a blank piece of paper.
They must add all the numbers from one to 12 and then set the hands to a specific time, for example 11.10 (ten past 11).
The task relies on the patient remembering what a clock face looks like - a skill known as executive function, which involves how we plan, organize and complete tasks.
Executive function is one of the cognitive skills that first begins to falter when dementia develops.
A skewed circle and incorrectly placed numbers on this clock can indicate early signs of the condition.
If the patient manages to draw a clock correctly it 'virtually excludes' dementia because the task requires a wide range of cognitive skills, the NHS in the UK says.
However, if they struggle they should seek further advice from a doctor.
An estimated 7.2 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's dementia in the U.S..
Previous studies have estimated that around 40 per cent of all dementia cases could be prevented with lifestyle changes.
This includes healthier diets, increased exercise, drinking less alcohol, preventing head injury and using hearing aids.
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The Independent
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Medical News Today
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