An early sign of Alzheimer’s disease could be detected in the shower. Here’s what to look out for in 1st comment

When people think about Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss is usually the first symptom that comes to mind. However, growing research suggests that early warning signs can appear long before noticeable memory problems—sometimes in subtle, everyday ways. One overlooked signal may be a reduced sense of smell, particularly during routine activities such as showering.

Our sense of smell, known as olfaction, is closely connected to brain health. The olfactory system links directly to the hippocampus and amygdala, regions responsible for memory, learning, and emotion. Because of this close connection, changes in smell perception can reflect early changes in the brain. In Alzheimer’s disease, the olfactory bulb is often affected early, which may lead to difficulty detecting or identifying familiar scents. This loss can occur years before more obvious cognitive symptoms appear.

Showering offers a simple daily opportunity to notice these changes. The scent of soap, shampoo, or body wash is usually familiar and easy to recognize. When those smells seem faint or disappear entirely—without a clear cause such as a cold or sinus infection—it may be worth paying attention. Studies have shown that people who struggle to identify common odors are more likely to experience cognitive decline over time.

One long-term study found that participants who performed poorly on smell identification tests had a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Because these tests are non-invasive and inexpensive, researchers believe they could one day become part of routine health screenings, helping detect cognitive changes earlier than traditional methods.

It’s important to note that not every change in smell signals Alzheimer’s. Temporary loss can result from allergies, infections, or aging. However, persistent difficulty recognizing everyday odors—especially when combined with memory lapses, confusion, or personality changes—should prompt a conversation with a healthcare professional.

Early detection matters. When Alzheimer’s is identified in its earliest stages, interventions and lifestyle adjustments may help slow progression and improve quality of life. Staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, keeping the mind engaged, maintaining social connections, and prioritizing sleep all support brain health.

Sometimes, the smallest changes carry the biggest clues. Paying attention to your sense of smell may offer valuable insight into cognitive well-being long before more obvious symptoms appear.