Physical Frailty Could Predict Alzheimer's Disease

The findings also held up regardless of a patient's physical activity level or disease history.

According to Buchman's group, one previous study that focused on the same group of patients while they were still alive revealed that among those with no cognitive impairment, frailer patients had a higher risk for developing Alzheimer's than those who were less frail.

"So now, we put all this together, and it raises the possibility that Alzheimer's is much more of a public health issue than previously thought, if it turns out that being weak is a sign of its onset," said Buchman. "But, if so, we also now have a clue as to how we can possibly intervene, perhaps by treating motor dysfunction years before people develop dementia, so that they won't develop dementia as early."

Dr. Laurel Coleman, an Augusta, Maine-based geriatrician and member of the Alzheimer's Association's National Board, described the study as "well-done" and "incredibly provocative."

"This study really ties together two very common syndromes in aging --cognitive processes and motor skills -- in ways I have not seen them connected before," she noted. "So, I think this is very important and relevant, because it raises the question of whether frailty could be an early manifestation of Alzheimer's disease. The study doesn't necessarily answer the question, and this is something they now have to go about proving. But already, for me, that idea is a whole new thought that will push me to look at my patients with new eyes."

More information

For more on the warning signs of Alzheimer's, visit the Alzheimer's Association.

SOURCES: Aron S. Buchman, M.D., associate professor, department of neurological sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago; Laurel Coleman, M.D., geriatrician, Alzheimer's Association National Board, Augusta, Maine; Aug. 12, 2008,Neurology