Approximately one million people in France are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, representing around 8% of those aged 65 and older. With nearly 225,000 new cases each year, research is focused on understanding its origins and slowing progression. Early signs often include cognitive decline, particularly through language changes like speech disorders, poor word choice, and reduced vocabulary. Persistent difficulties in recalling words and multitasking during conversations may indicate the disease’s onset, warranting further attention.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Current Landscape in France
As reported by the Vaincre Alzheimer Foundation, approximately **one million individuals** in France are living with Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for around **8% of the population aged 65 and above** based on the latest statistics from 2020. Additionally, the country sees nearly **225,000 new cases annually**, prompting researchers to delve deeper into the **origins of this condition** and explore ways to slow its progression. While existing treatments can mitigate symptoms initially and delay severe impacts, the average **life expectancy** post-diagnosis ranges from **8 to 12 years**, as indicated by findings from the **Pasteur Institute**.
Identifying Early Signs Through Language Changes
The first noticeable sign of Alzheimer’s typically involves **cognitive decline**, which can present itself through various symptoms, including challenges in expressing thoughts, distorted perceptions of reality, and difficulties with everyday tasks such as personal hygiene and dressing. As the disease progresses, patients may experience increasing dependence and, eventually, dementia, alongside possible behavioral changes.
Recent studies suggest that **speech disorders** can serve as early indicators of Alzheimer’s. Researchers note that **pauses**, **hesitations**, and **language inaccuracies** become more prevalent. One major symptom is the struggle to recall specific words, leading to frequent pauses and the overuse of generic terms like **’thing’** when the individual cannot remember the exact word they intend to use.
Moreover, individuals with Alzheimer’s may exhibit **poor word choice**, often substituting a word they cannot recall with a related term—such as saying **’dog’** when referring to a cat. Initially, these substitutions relate to broader categories, like saying **’animal’** instead of **’cat’**. Another precursor symptom involves the difficulty in multitasking while conversing. For instance, instead of focusing on completing a task, a person may express doubts about their abilities, stating phrases like **’I’m not sure I can do this’** or reminiscing about past competence.
Additionally, a notable decline in **vocabulary richness** is a subtle yet significant indicator of Alzheimer’s. Those affected often resort to simpler language and repetitive use of common words, which may impact their ability to articulate thoughts effectively. They might struggle to pinpoint specific words or categorize objects, a challenge that can sometimes serve as a cognitive assessment for the disease.
In summary, while it is normal to forget words occasionally, persistent and worsening issues with remembering terms, speaking fluently, or using diverse vocabulary could signal the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease.