A simple 60-second test could help identify if you're at risk of developing dementia, new research has claimed.

Many people worry about declining brain health, especially after seeing loved ones struggle with conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's.

But Dr Matthew Motisi, an orthopaedic surgeon at Baptist Health Orthopaedic Care in Miami, says this quick pen-and-paper test can provide valuable insights into brain health.

The test can detect early signs of cognitive decline, which is considered a precursor to dementia, Dr Motisi told Prevention.

The test could detect early signs of cognitive decline

To take the test, Dr Motisi advised: "Grab a pencil and paper and choose any large category containing many items (e.g., fruits, animals, or TV shows). Set your phone timer for one minute and press Start.

"Jot down as many things as you can think of that fit into the group. When the timer goes off, put down your pencil."

Common examples for categories include types of fruit, species of animal, or TV shows.

The person then attempts to write down as many examples as they can think of within a minute.

Experts say you should be able to name at least 15 items and ideally more than 21.

A 2007 study published in the Journal of Psychiatry stated: "If he or she cannot name 15 or more objects, the patient is likely to be cognitively impaired and the likelihood that he or she has Alzheimer's disease may be 20 times higher than if a patient can name 15 animals or more."

A subsequent study of 69 adults, carried out in 2022, found that scores in the test declined with age.

Crucially, worse performance was related to levels of amyloid-β in the body, a sign of Alzheimer's.

Other similar tests can also identify potential signs of dementia, with the analogue clock drawing test being one of the most well-known.

This test asks a person to draw a clock face on blank paper, add all numbers from one to 12, and set the hands to a specific time, such as 11.10.

The task relies on executive function, which involves planning, organising and completing tasks.

Used by the NHS for decades, a skewed circle and incorrectly placed numbers can indicate early signs of dementia. If drawn correctly, it "virtually excludes" dementia, according to the NHS.

Dementia affects an estimated one million people in the UK

Dementia affects an estimated one million people in the UK, with Alzheimer's being the most common cause.

Recent analysis by the Alzheimer's Society estimated the annual cost of dementia to the UK is £42billion, with families bearing the brunt.

These costs are set to soar to £90bn in the next 15 years due to an ageing population.

Alzheimer's Research UK found 74,261 people died from dementia in 2022, making it the country's biggest killer.

Previous studies suggest around 40 per cent of dementia cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes, including healthier diets, increased exercise and drinking less alcohol.