Researchers may have uncovered a surprising new way to predict dementia decades before symptoms appear—by analysing subtle changes in a person’s face. Groundbreaking studies suggest that facial features could provide early warning signs of cognitive decline, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and intervention.
Dementia, which encompasses a range of cognitive decline conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, affects memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities to the extent that it interferes with daily life.
While forgetfulness is commonly associated with the onset of dementia, researchers have identified several early signs that may manifest in the face. They are as follows:
1. Smaller jaw muscles
One of the most striking findings comes from a study at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, where researchers discovered that a decrease in the mass of the temporalis muscle could indicate a higher risk of developing dementia.
Individuals with smaller temporalis muscles were found to be 60 per cent more likely to develop the condition. This is particularly relevant for those over 50, who naturally lose muscle mass each year.
The study, which involved MRI scans of 621 participants, found that those with the most significant loss of temple muscle were at a notably increased risk of dementia.
2. Pronounced crow’s feet
Another study, published in the Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy journal, suggests that an increase in crow’s feet, or wrinkles around the eyes, could be an early sign of cognitive impairment.
The research indicates that people with more pronounced facial wrinkles in this area were 2.5 times more likely to experience cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia.
The study’s authors believe that facial ageing ‘may be an indicator’ of dementia risk.
3. Cataracts and other vision issues
Eye health may also be a window into cognitive health. A study in the British Journal of Ophthalmology linked age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and diabetes-related eye disease to a higher risk of dementia.
Tracking approximately 12,000 adults between the ages of 55 and 73 over 15 years, the researchers found that those with AMD had a 26 per cent increased risk, while those with cataracts and diabetes-related eye disease had an 11 per cent and 61 per cent higher risk, respectively.
The risk was even greater for individuals with multiple eye conditions.
4. Worsening hearing ability
Hearing loss is another potential early indicator of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society notes that difficulty in understanding sounds and speech can cause the brain to work harder, potentially leading to changes that affect memory and thinking abilities.
Moreover, hearing problems can lead to social isolation, a known risk factor for dementia.
5. Recurring cold sores
Lastly, cold sores, caused by the Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), have been linked to an increased risk of dementia.
A Swedish study followed over 1,002 individuals aged 70 and above for 15 years and found that those who developed Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia were more likely to carry HSV-1.
The virus can cause inflammation in the nervous system during flare-ups, which may contribute to the changes associated with dementia.
These findings underscore the importance of paying attention to subtle changes in our appearance as we age. While none of these signs are definitive indicators of dementia on their own, they could prompt earlier conversations with healthcare professionals and potentially lead to earlier interventions.
At YourLifeChoices, we encourage our readers to maintain regular health check-ups, including eye and hearing exams, and to discuss any concerns about cognitive health with their doctors. Early detection and management of dementia can significantly improve quality of life, and being aware of these facial clues is a step in the right direction.
Have you noticed any of these changes in yourself or a loved one? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
Also read: Researchers discover activity that can slow down onset of dementia by 5 years
