Experts are raising concerns about specific changes in walking patterns that may signal the early onset of dementia. Walking requires significant cognitive effort, and researchers have identified certain walking-related symptoms as potential warning signs of the condition, according to a report by Irish Star.

As dementia progresses, individuals may struggle with their sense of direction, making it difficult to accurately interpret their surroundings. This altered perception can lead them to misjudge objects and spaces, sometimes causing them to change direction unexpectedly to avoid obstacles they only think are present. Gill Livingston, a professor at University College London, explains that early-stage Alzheimer’s can impact spatial awareness, leading to misinterpretations of visual information.

Cognitive decline also affects walking speed and step size, often resulting in reduced confidence and balance. Dr. Kadam Nagpal, a senior consultant neurologist at Salubritas Medcentre, highlights four key walking signs that could indicate dementia.The first sign is a noticeable slowing of walking speed. This is more common in advanced stages of dementia, where symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease begin to emerge. As these symptoms progress, individuals may exhibit significantly reduced mobility.Another key sign is a decrease in arm swing while walking. This often accompanies postural instability, where patients struggle to maintain an upright posture, further affecting their balance and coordination. These subtle changes in movement can serve as early indicators of underlying neurological decline.

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