Fiona Phillips, who previously hosted the daytime ITV programme Loose Women, has shared the first symptoms she noticed before being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. The TV star was diagnosed at the age of 62, and she disclosed her diagnosis in July 2023. 

In a recent admission, she said she noticed symptoms such as brain fog and anxiety, which she initially believed were linked to menopause. Phillips’ diagnosis comes as her mother, father, and uncle also suffered from Alzheimer’s. She has shared her journey to raise awareness and provide support to others who are facing similar difficulties.

She has been candid about her situation, expressing that she is “getting on with it” and attempting to maintain a sense of normalcy. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s at this time, early diagnosis and treatment can enhance the quality of life.

Phillips’ situation underscores the significance of identifying potential symptoms, even those that might first be thought to be related to other issues like menopause. Early-onset Alzheimer’s refers to people diagnosed with this heartbreaking condition before they turn 65.

A quick and straightforward test, taking less than a minute to complete, could highlight early signs of dementia. Some experts claim it’s “even more accurate” than traditional memory assessments. This at-home test requires nothing more than a pen, paper, and a timer.

Dr Eric Berg DC outlined the process in one of his YouTube videos, which involves drawing a clock showing 10 minutes past 11 o’clock within 30 seconds. It sounds simple enough – and people should be able to assess their own results straight afterwards.

People can evaluate their drawing against six specific questions to work out if they’ve passed the test. These criteria are crucial in assessing the potential for early cognitive deficits that may signal dementia:

1. Were any numbers jumbled up?
2. Did you write all 12 numbers?
3. Were they spaced out evenly?
4. Were the hands of the clock facing in the right direction?
5. Did you have the hour and minute hands at the correct length?
6. Did you have enough time to complete the task?

Dr Berg said the sensitivity of this simple exercise as “one of the most sensitive indicators for early cognitive deficits”, potentially indicative of dementia. He also noted that some neurologists believe this technique to be “even more accurate than memory tests”.

The doctor further discussed various factors that could contribute to the development of dementia as we age. He pointed out that sugar consumption might lead to brain shrinkage, particularly affecting the hippocampus, which is vital for memory retention, reports Surrey Live. Additionally, chronic stress was mentioned as a possible factor increasing the likelihood of cognitive issues such as dementia.

What is early dementia?

Early-onset dementia, also referred to as young-onset dementia, is a diagnosis given when symptoms of dementia manifest before the age of 65. Although dementia is typically associated with older individuals, it can, albeit rarely, affect younger people too.

The Alzheimer’s Society explains that in the initial stages of dementia, an individual’s symptoms are often quite mild and not immediately noticeable. Dementia can be triggered by a variety of different diseases, but there are significant differences in how it impacts younger people.

Young-onset dementia is more likely to be genetically inherited. The organisation also notes that younger individuals with dementia are less likely to experience memory loss as one of their initial symptoms, compared to older individuals.

For instance, they may primarily struggle with language, vision, or behavioural issues. Problems might also be related to movement, balance, and coordination. For further information, go to the Alzheimer’s Society website.

What are the stages of dementia?

Dementia generally progresses through three main stages: early, middle, and late. These stages provide a basic framework, although the rate of progression can vary significantly among individuals.

Early stage (mild):

This stage may involve subtle changes in memory, thinking, and behaviour that can be easily dismissed or attributed to other factors. Some signs may include:

• Difficulty finding the right words.
• Occasional memory lapses, like forgetting appointments.
• Misplacing items.
• Challenges with complex tasks.

Middle stage (moderate):

Symptoms become more noticeable and impact daily life. Individuals may experience:

• Increased confusion and disorientation.
• Difficulty with familiar tasks like dressing or bathing.
• Changes in personality and mood.
• Wandering.
• Difficulty recognising loved ones.
• Increased reliance on others for care.

Late stage (severe):

In this final stage, people undergo significant cognitive and physical decline. Symptoms include:

• Loss of speech.
• Inability to understand language.
• Complete dependence on others for care.
• Reduced awareness of surroundings.
• Loss of physical abilities.

Not everyone exhibits the same symptoms or progresses through the stages at the same rate. Understanding the stages can help in preparing for care and support needs at each phase.

Although these are general stages, some people may progress through them more quickly than others. The duration of each stage can vary greatly from one person to another.