How Is a Shuffling Walk Related to Dementia?

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

A shuffling walk can be an early sign of brain changes linked to dementia. Research shows that walking difficulties may predict future cognitive problems.

Explanation

A shuffling gait—characterized by short, dragging steps—may signal more than normal aging. It could indicate changes in brain function. Research shows that people who shuffle when walking often experience changes in thinking and memory. A shuffling or slower walk may indicate that the brain is struggling with tasks like planning, movement, or memory. When medical experts notice changes in walking patterns, they can monitor for other signs of cognitive decline. This allows healthcare providers to develop appropriate care plans for those who may be at risk of developing dementia. Understanding how someone walks provides valuable insight into their overall brain health.

(References)

Parihar R, Mahoney JR, Verghese J. RELATIONSHIP OF GAIT AND COGNITION IN THE ELDERLY. Curr Transl Geriatr Exp Gerontol Rep. 2013 Sep 1;2(3):10.1007/s13670-013-0052-7. doi: 10.1007/s13670-013-0052-7. PMID: 24349877; PMCID: PMC3859437.
Tuena C, Maestri S, Serino S, Pedroli E, Stramba-Badiale M, Riva G; Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Prognostic relevance of gait-related cognitive functions for dementia conversion in amnestic mild cognitive impairment. BMC Geriatr. 2023 Jul 31;23(1):462. doi: 10.1186/s12877-023-04175-8. PMID: 37525134; PMCID: PMC10388514.
Gras LZ, Kanaan SF, McDowd JM, Colgrove YM, Burns J, Pohl PS. Balance and gait of adults with very mild Alzheimer disease. J Geriatr Phys Ther. 2015 Jan-Mar;38(1):1-7. doi: 10.1519/JPT.0000000000000020. PMID: 24755691; PMCID: PMC4632639.

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