The role of tactile sense as an early indicator of cognitive decline in aging

Abstract

Mild cognitive deterioration, or minor cognitive impairment, is characterized by a decline in mental abilities without affecting daily functional independence; at the neurobiological level, the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus are often the first affected. Recent research highlights the role of the hippocampus in tactile processing, with the loss of tactile skills appearing as early signs of impairment. The relationship between tactile deterioration and cognitive decline may be attributed to neurodegenerative aging processes involving neuronal plasticity and synaptic density alterations, affecting both sensory and cognitive systems. Consequently, loss of tactile information could serve as an early indicator of cognitive decline, enabling timely interventions to delay the onset of dementia. Encouraging physical activities involving tactile feedback may further support cognitive health and overall well-being in older adults.