Doctor reveals easy 2-minute tests that could explain if you have early signs of dementia

A neurologist has detailed five two-minute tests that could explain if you have early signs of dementia.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's or dementia include forgetfulness, while other forms of the disease can cause hallucinations, stiffness, and anxiety.

Of course, if you suspect signs of dementia, it's always best to visit a healthcare professional - though they are some simple tests you can do at home to see if you are showing signs of the disease.

Neurologist Dr Baibing Chen, who goes by Dr Bing on social sites such as TikTok, spoke in a recent video about five simple tests you can do to see if you are showing dementia tendencies.

Stand on one leg

The first exercise is a pretty simple one, as it only takes 30 seconds to do.

Those who are concerned should try and remain in position for half a minute to see if they can keep their balance.

"For those with two legs and no mobility issues, difficulty standing on one leg for at least 30 seconds has been lined to a higher risk of dementia and stroke," the expert said.

"This is because it can reflect subtle deficits in the brain areas controlling your balance and motor skills."

Smell test

This next test involves the use of an individual's nose, with the participant being asked to identify a series of different odours.

Why this test is a useful one, you ask? Well, early-onset dementia can impact the ability to smell properly, and with such a disease, it's very important to catch things early.

"Problems with smell identification can indicate neurodegeneration such as in those with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's," Dr. Bing said.

Clock-drawing

The clock-drawing test is actually used in some diagnostic clinics, which involves patients drawing a clock and adding all the numbers to it.

They will then be asked about adding specific times to the clock.

Dr. Bing explained: "I just ask a patients to draw a clock showing a specific time. If somebody has difficulty with spatial organisation, attention and planning, such as those with Alzheimer's disease, this task can be very difficult."

A 'dual task gait test'

This test requires participants to walk while completing a cognitive task, which typically involves something like counting backwards.

"Difficulty with this can indicate problems with executive function, memory or attention," the expert explained.

Verbal fluency

Those involved with this test are asked to list many items within a certain category, with Dr. Bing recommending animals as a suitable category.

"Difficulties in recalling words within a set time frame can indicate decline in certain regions of the brain, such as those affected by Alzheimer's disease or frontal temporal dementia," the expert went on to say.