Changes to speech and language can help detect Alzheimer’s early; five things to look out for

Early speech-related signs of Alzheimer’s disease: a summary of a recent article from The Conversation

Dementia affects 10 million people globally each year, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common cause. In the UK, around one million people currently live with dementia, a number projected to rise to 1.6 million by 2050. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that impairs memory and thinking skills, and early detection is crucial for accessing appropriate support and treatment.

One of the early indicators of Alzheimer’s is changes in language and speech patterns. Here are five key speech-related signs to watch for:

Pauses, hesitations, and vagueness

People may struggle to recall specific words, leading to frequent pauses, hesitations, or vague descriptions (e.g. saying “thing” instead of the correct term).

Using incorrect words

They might replace words with others from the same category (e.g. saying “cat” instead of “dog”) or use overly general terms.

Talking about a task instead of doing it

Instead of completing a task, they may discuss their doubts or past abilities, such as saying, “I used to be good at this.”

Reduced vocabulary variety

Simpler language and repetitive word choices become more common, along with excessive use of connecting words like “and” or “but.”

Difficulty naming objects or groups

Struggling to list items in a category (e.g. foods or body parts) can indicate cognitive decline.

Age is the biggest risk factor, with Alzheimer’s risk doubling every five years after 65. However, early-onset Alzheimer’s can also affect younger individuals. While occasional word-finding difficulties are normal, persistent and worsening language issues may signal the onset of the disease. Recognizing these signs early can help individuals and caregivers seek timely intervention.

Read the full article at The Conversation here

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