One common early sign of dementia that can be easily spotted whilst walking

Dementia experts have identified a common early sign of the condition that can be noticed while walking. Dementia affects around 900,000 people in the UK and changes in walking patterns are now said to be an early indicator.

Dementia is becoming more of a challenge, making continuous research into early detection and support vital. Scientists say they have now spotted a sign that could suggest the disease's presence early on, which will help with the diagnosis.

Usually, memory loss and speech decline are the most obvious signs, but before these show up, some people may notice changes in their movement and mobility. According to Alzheimer's Research UK, they might also have problems with gait, increased unsteadiness or stiffness in their limbs.

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Difficulty with coordination skills could also be an early sign of dementia, as researchers have found a link between these symptoms and the disease. Spotting these small signs early on could help provide the necessary support to patients before the disease progresses.

Alzheimer's Research UK says that every person experiences dementia differently, especially in the early stages. Alongside changes in movement and mobility, individuals might also experience a "misunderstanding of what is being seen", reports the Mirror.

The experts explained that people may have "problems judging distances (such as on stairs) or perceiving the edges of objects, and misinterpreting patterns or reflections." People with dementia might also start "walking repeatedly around at home or leaving the house during the day or night."

Other signs include having trouble concentrating, planning or organising. This could mean