This repetitive movement could indicate restlessness, a sign of later stage dementia.
Experts have issued a warning about potential warning signs of dementia that could appear in the hands. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, these symptoms might be indicative of the later stages of the condition, signalling that someone needs more support.
Dementia is a common syndrome, affecting around 900,000 people in the UK. More prevalent among people over the age of 65, its early warning symptoms can sometimes be confused with normal signs of ageing.
Many of us are aware of the typical symptoms of dementia which include issues such as memory loss, difficulty following conversations, and confusion. However, other signs are less well known and could be dismissed or mistaken for something else.
Charity the Alzheimer’s Society warned that changes in behaviour are a potential warning sign of dementia in its later stages. “People in the later stages of dementia may behave out of character,” it says. “These behaviours can be difficult to understand and often have different causes.”
This can manifest as a sign in the hands. “Constant” ringing of the hands could indicate restlessness, something that people with dementia can experience.
They might also fidget and pull at their clothes as a result. The charity said: “Many people with dementia become restless and may fidget or pace up and down.
“They may constantly wring their hands, pull at their clothes or touch themselves inappropriately in public. This could be because of pain or discomfort, needing the toilet, a need for more physical activity or problems with their environment. It may also be because the person used to move around a lot as part of their job.”
To help ease this symptom, the Alzheimer’s Society made some suggestions. It said: “It may help to encourage exercise or activities related to interests and hobbies, both new and from their past. A rummage box, containing objects related to the person’s past such as pictures, jewellery or souvenirs, may help as it gives the person an opportunity to move their hands.”
Other behavioural changes that could signal dementia include:
- Aggression
- Distress or agitation
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Repetition
- Sundowning – becoming more agitated and confused in the late afternoon and early evening.
How to manage this behaviour
Firstly, the charity recommends trying to understand what may be causing the person’s behaviour and think about whether they have any unmet needs.
These include:
- Ensure that any glasses or hearing aids are clean and functioning properly. Arrange regular sight and hearing checks
- Check whether the person’s medication is appropriate or whether they might be ill or in pain. A visit to the GP to rule out any physical problems is a good idea
- Check that they are not being disturbed by too many people, too much activity, loud noises, sudden movements or an uncomfortable environment (for example, one that is too hot or too bright)
- Consider whether they may be bored or in need of stimulation. Engage the person in meaningful activities. Gentle activities such as a hand massage, listening to their favourite music or stroking a soft piece of fabric may help
- Make sure the person is comfortable – for example not cold, hungry, thirsty, or needing the toilet.
Find out about the symptoms you need to watch out for and get health advice with our free health newsletter from the Mirror
Other symptoms of dementia include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
- Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
- Being confused about time and place
- Mood changes.
If you or someone you know displays any of the signs of dementia you should speak to a GP.
