The early warning dementia sign that can be spotted when walking up stairs

A diagnosis of dementia is devastating for both the person affected and their loved ones. It can cause problems with memory, behavioural changes and affect a person’s ability to think, speak and carry out daily activities.

However one lesser known part of the condition is the physical impact it can have, reports The Express. It means that a person with dementia may struggle to walk up and down the stairs as their visuospatial awareness is impaired.

They might also have difficulty lifting their legs, and they might be more prone to slipping or falling.

Dementia charity Alzheimer Scotland explains: "People often assume that memory loss and dementia are one and the same, but there are other key symptoms and signs to look out for. Every person with dementia is different. How their illness affects them depends on which areas of their brain are most damaged."

The charity adds: “Dementia can cause problems with how we move about in our surrounding area. Things like slips, trips and falls might become more common. You might start to notice that a person is shuffling as opposed to lifting their legs when they are walking."

If someone you know is experiencing difficulties with walking on the stairs as well as other symptoms of dementia you should arrange for them to see their GP.

If you are concerned about how someone is moving on the stairs there are ways to make them safer. The Alzheimer’s Society says: “Falls on stairs and steps can cause injuries, so it is important to make them safe. If you rent your home you may need to speak to the landlord or letting agent about making any adjustments.”

It recommends the following:

Strength and balance exercises can also help improve mobility. The charity adds: “You can reduce your risk of