Experts have flagged an unexpected sign of dementia, which could be easy to miss. This symptom could be spotted while someone goes up and down stairs but could be dismissed as a common side effect of getting older.
The most commonly known indicators of dementia encompass issues with memory, behaviour changes, and compromised abilities in thought, communication, and daily activities. However, its physical impacts are equally crucial.
Charity Alzheimer Scotland explains: “People often assume that memory loss and dementia are one and the same, but there are other key symptoms and signs to look out for.” The organisation stresses that due to the particular ways cognitive damage manifests in each person, challenges like negotiating steps may represent a noticeable red flag.
As reported by Express.co.uk, those affected by dementia may struggle to lift their legs, heightening the likelihood of slipping accidents or falls on the stairs. Alzheimer Scotland cautions: “Dementia can cause problems with how we move about in our surrounding area.”
It clarifies that an increase in stumbles could be indicative of the condition progressing. “You might start to notice that a person is shuffling as opposed to lifting their legs when they are walking,” it says.
How to keep stairs safe
For those concerned about a relative’s ability to navigate stairs, there are measures that can be put into place to enhance their safety.
The Alzheimer’s Society advises: “Falls on stairs and steps can cause injuries, so it is important to make them safe.”
It recommends the following:
- If carpets or floor coverings are worn or damaged you should replace them
- Try to make sure any bannisters are sturdy
- Make sure you can clearly see the edges of each step by using paint or “nosing” (which is special stair edging)
- Consider fitting easy-grip handrails on the walls on both sides of the stairs
- Keep stairs free from clutter, and try not to carry too much when using them.
- Strength and balance exercises can also help improve mobility.
The charity adds: “You can reduce your risk of falling by doing strength or balance exercises twice a week. These include sitting, standing and walking exercises. Your GP could also refer you to a physiotherapist.”
It’s also worth checking the home for potential hazards such as rugs, loose or worn carpets, furniture or objects lying around, the charity says. According to the NHS, other signs of dementia to look for include problems with:
- Memory loss
- Thinking speed
- Mental sharpness and quickness
- Language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking
- Understanding
- Judgement
- Mood
- Doing daily activities
- Losing interest in their usual activities
- Managing their behaviour or emotions
- Finding social situations difficult and losing interest in relationships and socialising
- Personality changes
- Hallucinations.
If you notice someone struggling with walking on stairs alongside other dementia symptoms, it’s crucial to arrange a GP visit for them.