Balance Problems an Early Clue for Alzheimer's?

clipped from alzheimers.about.com Balance problems may be an early sign that someone has a dementia such as Alzheimer's. Research has found physical symptoms, such as problems with walking and balance, a weak hand grip (a later sign) are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The study tested for physical functioning using a number of tests. It was found that people with good physical performance scores at the beginning of the investigation were three times less likely to develop dementia than those with poor scores. Higher levels of physical function may be associated with a delayed onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.