A very simple home test that can be done to test the waters for possible Alzheimer’s disease involves the use of peanut butter and a ruler. The basic principle is that as dementia sets in and “shuts off” certain parts of the brain, the olfactory nerves are fair game for deterioration. The interesting thing is that different nerves operate the left and right nostrils, which means changes in the sense of smell can be an indicator for dementia.
The University of Florida conducted experiments and discovered a method that uses highly accessible “ingredients” and a simple process. Blindfold someone suspected of Alzheimer’s disease, and put a small dab of peanut butter on a ruler. Have the person take turns placing a finger on one side of the nose to close off a nostril (similar to covering one eye for vision tests), and see if the peanut butter can be smelled regardless of distance. If afflicted with Alzheimer’s, the left nostril will have a weaker sense of smell. A difference of 15cm is cause for a visit to the doctor.
For example: Without telling the blindfolded individual, put some peanut butter at the 20cm mark. Have the individual close the left nostril and smell with the right nostril. Next, remove the peanut butter from the 20cm mark (wash off any residue), and place peanut butter at a new location. If the individual, now smelling with the left nostril, is unable to smell the peanut butter until it is within 5cm, that means there is brain impairment that should be examined. It may be best to run this test several several times to confirm the same result each time (to rule out sinus problems or other false positives).