A particular speech trait may predict cognitive decline, a study finds.
Difficulty finding words, speed of speech, speech tics… In a conversation, there are certain speech traits that are easily detected. However, one of them could be indicative of cognitive decline. While frequent difficulty finding words can be seen as an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, a study from the University of Toronto suggests that it is another speech trait that is a more accurate and reliable indicator of brain health. Fumbling for words may actually be a more “normal” part of aging.
For their research, the scientists asked 125 healthy adults of all ages to describe two complex images in detail. This narrative was recorded and analyzed by artificial intelligence software to highlight certain characteristics such as the words used, the speed of speech, the pauses between words, etc.
This exercise was accompanied by tests on concentration, speed of thinking and ability to perform tasks. The guinea pigs also had to recognize objects in pictures while hearing a “distractor word” at the same time. The researchers then recorded the reaction time between seeing the image and responding.
Analyzing the results of these tests, the researchers observed a correlation between the decline in executive abilities and a slower speech rate. According to the authors, “cognitive slowing is thought to reduce task performance either through time limitation or through a failure of simultaneity.” This study then shows that it is not only what is said that can reveal cognitive changes, but also the speed at which these words are proclaimed. “It was not stopping to find the words that showed the strongest link with brain health, but rather the speed of speech surrounding the pauses,” the researchers analyzed.
While further research is needed, this discovery could help identify people at risk before more serious symptoms appear. This could help identify early warning signs of neurodegenerative diseases, for example. Speech speed should therefore be tested more as part of standard cognitive assessments.