Rapid and severe memory loss might not just be a sign of old age, but could also be a precursor to a deadly stroke.

Researchers in the United States have found a link between killer strokes and pronounced memory decline in the years preceding them.

The study carried out checks for signs of fading memory every two years on nearly 12,000 people aged 50 and older.

Of the 1820 people who suffered strokes over a 10-year period, 364 people died and were found to have more severe memory loss than individuals who survived a stroke or did not have one.

The reason for the link is unknown, but may reflect underlying disease prior to a fatal stroke.