Researchers at the University of Chicago have identified a potential early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease
09:23, 15 Jun 2026Updated 16:33, 15 Jun 2026
The early indicator of Alzheimer’s which could be found in the bathroom(Image: Olga Rolenko via Getty Images)
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in older adults, progressively eroding memory and cognitive abilities. The most recognisable symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulty concentrating and struggling with everyday tasks.
However, researchers specialising in Alzheimer’s disease have identified a potential early warning sign of dementia that could transform how quickly the health condition is detected. While there’s currently no cure for dementia, early diagnosis can help healthcare professionals slow its advancement and reduce its impact.
Memory loss is typically associated with dementia; however, scientists from the University of Chicago have highlighted a marked decline in the sense of smell as a possible early indicator.
This finding suggests that people may be able to spot Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest stages, particularly when noticing a diminished ability to identify familiar scents during routine activities like showering.
The research focuses on the link between odour recognition and memory. The team examined the olfactory function of 515 older adults, working to develop screening tests for the sense of smell similar to those used for vision and hearing checks, reports Surrey Live.
A decline in the sense of smell in items such as shampoo or shower gel could be an early sign(Image: Bloomberg, Bloomberg via Getty Images)
These tests could alert people to early warning signs, such as being unable to smell their shampoo or shower gel as intensely while bathing.
Jayant M Pinto, a professor of surgery at the University of Chicago specialising in olfactory and sinus disease, and senior author of the study, underlined the importance of their findings: “This study provides another clue to how a rapid decline in the sense of smell is a really good indicator of what’s going to end up structurally occurring in specific regions of the brain.
“We were able to show that the volume and shape of grey matter in olfactory and memory-associated areas of the brains of people with rapid decline in their sense of smell were smaller compared to people who had less severe olfactory decline.”
If you have concerns about your memory or suspect you may have dementia, it is strongly recommended that you speak to your GP.
If you’re worried about someone else’s symptoms, encourage them to book an appointment with a GP and consider accompanying them.
An early dementia diagnosis can open the door to future care and treatment, making the recognition of symptoms absolutely vital. While there is currently no cure for dementia, seeking early medical advice and intervention can help to better manage the condition.
Studies show that more than 944,000 people across the UK are currently living with dementia, a figure that is projected to rise significantly.
Alzheimer’s disease remains the most prevalent cause of dementia, followed by vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia.
The NHS states that dementia symptoms can include memory loss, reduced thinking speed, diminished mental sharpness, mood changes and difficulties managing everyday tasks.
However, these widely recognised symptoms are not the only warning signs to look out for — a loss of smell could also indicate a potential early indicator of the condition.
For further information regarding Alzheimer’s disease, visit The Alzheimer’s Society website or the dedicated section of the NHS website, which outlines the symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment options available for the condition.