If you are like most people, you probably rely on filler words such as "um" and "uh" when speaking, whether presenting at work or chatting with friends over coffee. While using filler words is very common, new research indicates that in some cases, paying closer attention to your speech patterns may be important for cognitive health and dementia risk.
Study Details and Findings
The study, led by experts from the Baycrest Corporate Centre for Geriatric Care, the University of Toronto, and York University, found that certain speech patterns can indicate cognitive decline and a higher risk for dementia. Participants described what they saw in detailed images while being recorded. Researchers used AI to analyze speech patterns, including filler words, pauses, and word-finding difficulties. Participants also completed cognitive tests; their speech analysis performance predicted their cognitive test results.
Expert Opinions on Speech and Cognition
Dr. Heather Whitson, a distinguished professor in neuroscience at Duke School of Medicine, noted that language is one of the cognitive domains affected by dementia. Difficulty finding common words is a feature in all types of dementia. However, not every forgotten word or misnamed restaurant is cause for concern.
Dr. Carolyn Fredericks, an assistant professor of neurology at Yale School of Medicine, explained that cognitive decline can be part of healthy aging. The study picks up a signature where some people decline more than others, making them vulnerable.
Normal Aging vs. Warning Signs
Difficulty finding words, especially proper nouns, is a normal part of aging. The study has limitations, as speech patterns vary by culture and family. It also only used data from one time point, so an individual's use of "uh" may be a lifelong habit, not a sign of decline.
Red flags that warrant a doctor visit include: having trouble expressing oneself with ordinary dictionary words, short-term memory lapses like repeating questions, getting lost in familiar places, repeatedly forgetting important appointments, and misplacing items with no memory of how they got there.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Lower Dementia Risk
Controlling high blood pressure is crucial. Strict blood pressure control (top number 120 or less) is associated with reduced dementia risk. Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to lower risk. Getting quality sleep, following a nutritious diet like the Mediterranean diet, and optimizing vision and hearing are also important. Protecting the head from injury, not smoking, and maintaining regular social and intellectual stimulation can help keep the brain challenged.
Promising AI Tool
The AI tool used in the study is promising for detecting patterns in speech that reveal brain function. However, experts advise not to panic over frequent use of "um" or pauses. Instead, focus on lowering dementia risk and consult a doctor if concerned.
