A recent study from Monash University has revealed that simple physical tests like walking speed and grip strength could be used to predict the risk of dementia earlier.
This research offers a promising new way to identify people at risk before serious symptoms develop.
The study analyzed data from over 18,000 older adults, mostly aged 70 and above, who took part in the ASPREE trial (ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly). These participants were healthy at the beginning of the study and were followed for nearly five years.
The results were clear: people who had both slower walking speeds and weaker grip strength were 79% more likely to develop dementia and had a 43% higher chance of cognitive decline than those with better physical strength and mobility.
When both measures declined during the study period, the risk rose even higher—to 89% for dementia and 55% for cognitive decline.
This is the first study to closely examine how the combination of walking speed and grip strength affects the risk of developing dementia. Out of all the participants, 2,773 experienced cognitive decline, and 558 were diagnosed with dementia, showing the importance of these findings.
Dr. Suzanne Orchard, the study’s lead author and a Senior Research Fellow at Monash University’s School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, stressed how vital it is to understand the link between physical health and brain health as people age.
She suggested that basic, easy-to-perform tests for grip strength and walking speed could be used in doctor’s offices to identify people at higher risk of dementia.
With global dementia cases expected to triple by 2050—from 57.4 million in 2019 to 152.8 million—the ability to detect the disease early is more important than ever. Early detection could help doctors begin treatment strategies sooner, potentially slowing the disease’s progress and improving the quality of life for patients.
The research is based on data from the ASPREE trial, a large clinical study that focuses on aging and health. It highlights how simple and accessible tools can help in spotting early signs of cognitive problems. Since there is still no cure for dementia, early action and good management strategies are key in reducing the burden of the disease.
The findings of this study were published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Diagnosis, Assessment & Disease Monitoring.
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