Signs of dementia and cognitive decline are unfortunately not always easy to detect. Many studies are being conducted to better understand and especially to recognize cognitive decline in the elderly more quickly. There is a test that can help in detecting signs of dementia, which can be done by a neurologist. Focus on the clock test.
With age, the aging of cells and in particular neurons can have more or less serious consequences. Indeed, the speed at which cells degenerate and the way in which this degeneration occurs can lead to a state of dementia. It is not always easy to detect the signs of cognitive declineas they vary so much from one person to another. However, certain signs should alert you, such as recurring memory loss, sudden mood changes, loss of motor coordination or difficulty expressing yourself and communicating with others.
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The most common and well-known form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which begins with a progressive memory loss accompanied by cognitive decline, sometimes very rapid. It is important to be able to recognize the signs of dementia as early as possible. Indeed, the earlier the diagnosis, the more it will be possible to adapt the care plan. It should be noted that any form of neurodegenerative disease affects the elderly person, but also those around them. It is therefore necessary for the relatives of a person showing signs of dementia to understand the symptoms, in order to be better prepared to support and accompany them on a daily basis. A very simple method, to be done at the neurologist, allows the signs of cognitive decline to be detected very quickly: the clock test.
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What is the clock test?
Signs of cognitive decline can take a long time to detect without the help of a healthcare professional. It is also advisable to consult your doctor regularly treating for check-ups, especially as we get older. Brain specialists apply an effective method, allowing them to have an accurate diagnosis in just 5 minutes. This is the clock test, which aims toassess cognitive functions.
How does the clock test work? It’s very simple: as its name suggests, the patient must be able to place the time on a drawn clock (by positioning or drawing the numbers and hands). Depending on the results of the exercise, the neurologist is able to assess visual abilities, planning, gestural abilities, understanding of the instructions to follow and semantic memory. Each “correct answer” is noted, and each “wrong answer” is analyzed to better understand the problem. Of course, this is not a thorough diagnosis, but depending on the patient’s answers, the neurologist can very quickly detect anomalies.
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How to support someone with dementia
The first signs of cognitive decline may be subtle, but it can still significantly affect daily life. That’s why the early diagnosis (which is particularly possible with the clock test) is extremely important. With a adapted supportthose around them can also do what is necessary to improve the quality of life of the loved one affected by the disease.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia and neurodegeneration. However, some drug treatments can help slow the progression of cognitive decline. It is also possible to use cognitive therapies, which help to stimulate memory. There are also home support systemsso that people with the condition can stay at home and maintain their well-being.
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