60-second writing test that could detect the earliest signs of dementia

Medical Advice

Express newspaper

15/05/2025 21:21

A simple test that takes just 60 seconds could help detect whether you are at risk of dementia, a recent study suggests.

This test requires only a pen, paper and a timer, and can detect early signs of cognitive decline, which is a precursor to dementia.

📝 How is the test performed?

Choose a broad category – for example:

Types of fruit

Types of animals

Names of television shows

Set the timer to 60 seconds.

Within that time, write as many examples as you can from that category.

🔎 Experts say you should be able to name at least 15 objects, and the ideal is over 21.

A 2007 study published in the Journal of Psychiatry states:

"If a person cannot name 15 or more objects, he/she is likely to have cognitive impairment and the chance of having Alzheimer's disease is 20 times higher than a person who can name 15 or more."

🧪 What does the test show?

A 2022 study of 69 US adults found that scores on this test decline with age.

But what's more important: the poorer results are linked to levels of amyloid-β in the body – a biological marker of Alzheimer's disease.

🕰️ Another popular test: drawing an analog clock

One of the most commonly used tests by the NHS is the clock drawing test.

📝 How it is done:

A blank sheet of paper is given and the person is asked to draw a clock.

He must add all the numbers from 1 to 12 and set the hands to a specific time (e.g. 11:10).

This task tests executive function ability – the ability to plan, organize, and complete tasks.

This is one of the first skills to be impaired when dementia develops.

The NHS says:

"If a person draws the clock correctly, this almost excludes dementia. But if they have difficulty, it is recommended to seek help from a doctor."

📊 Prevalence and cost of dementia in the UK

Dementia affects around 1 million people in the UK.

Alzheimer's is the most common cause of this condition.

The total annual cost of dementia to the UK is around £42 billion, according to the Alzheimer's Society.

This amount is expected to reach £90 billion within 15 years, due to the ageing population.

In 2022, 74,261 people died from dementia – making it the biggest killer in the country, according to Alzheimer's Research UK.

💡 Can dementia be prevented?

Yes. Studies suggest that about 40% of cases can be prevented with lifestyle changes:

Healthy diet

Regular physical activity

Lower alcohol consumption

Preventing head injuries

Using hearing aids when needed

/Express newspaper/