This Unexpected Symptom Could Be an Early Sign of Dementia

Mar. 15, 2025

Stock image of an older person being pushed in a wheelchair.Photo:Getty

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A surprising symptom — often dismissed as the early signs of a cold — could be a warning sign fordementia.

Along with memory problems and changes in cognitive thinking, losing your sense of smell could be an early indicator of dementia, according to a report inParade.

“As we age, it’s normal for our senses to change,” Dr. Meredith Bock, MD, a board-certified neurologist and chief medical officer at Remo Health, told the publication. “For people living with dementia, these changes can be more noticeable.”

Specifically, the sense of smell may be impacted, Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, MD, neurologist and sleep center medical director for Sentara RMH Medical Center, also told the outlet.

Stock image of lotions and body wash.Getty

“An increased risk of cognitive decline andAlzheimer’s diseasedementia has been identified in subjects with olfactory dysfunction,” she said. “Odor identification has been identified as a useful screening tool that predicts conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer’s disease dementia.”

This could present itself in everyday activities, Bock explained to the publication. “The process of neurodegeneration that causes dementia can also affect sensation and sensory processing related to smell, making it harder for them to recognize familiar scents like their favorite shampoo or body wash.”

As theU.S. Centers for Disease Controlexplains, “Dementia is a condition that makes someone unable to remember, think clearly, or make decisions while doing everyday activities.”

Loss of the sense of smell is also asymptom of Covid-19and other illnesses — so it’s recommended that you see a doctor if you notice a dulled or absentsense of smell.

source: people.com