A new study led by Swiss researchers tested the use of a non-invasive diagnostic belt for the early detection of dementia.
According to its findings in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, the sensor belt developed had been previously used for ECG measurements, with the capability of picking up on body temperature and gait pattern.
Before cognitive decline begins to occur among patients with dementia, there are subtle changes happening within the brain through unconscious bodily reactions.
The aim of the study was to facilitate an early detection system capable of estimating the progression of cognitive impairment. During the study, researchers were able to measure skin temperature changes using the sensor belt, indicating cognitive performance before the onset of dementia.
“We conclude that both skin and core body temperature measures are potential early biomarkers of cognitive decline and preclinical symptoms of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease,” the study’s authors affirmed in their findings.
“It may therefore be promising to integrate body temperature measures into multi-parameter systems for the remote and continuous monitoring of neurocognitive health in older adults.”
