There are more warning signs of dementia to look out for than just memory problems.
Fiona Callingham Lifestyle writer
15:17, 16 Aug 2025Updated 19:47, 16 Aug 2025
People with dementia ‘may constantly’ carry out a habit with their hands due to boredom or need for stimulation (Image: Getty)
Indicators of a devastating illness may manifest in the hands, experts have revealed. These warning signs could signal that someone is entering the more severe phases of dementia.
Dementia represents a widespread condition, impacting approximately 900,000 individuals throughout Britain. Predominantly affecting those over 65 years of age, its early warning signals are often mistaken for typical signs of growing older.
While most people are familiar with well-known dementia indicators such as memory problems, difficulty maintaining conversations, and confusion, other less recognised symptoms might go unnoticed or be misinterpreted. The Alzheimer’s Society has warned that behavioural changes may indicate dementia in its more advanced stages.
“People in the later stages of dementia may behave out of character,” the charity explained. “These behaviours can be difficult to understand and often have different causes.”
This behaviour might present itself through hand movements, with persistent wringing potentially indicating restlessness, a symptom commonly experienced by those with dementia. Sufferers may also fidget continuously and pull at their garments.
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.” The Alzheimer’s Society offered advice for handling these behaviours, explaining: “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.”
Additional behavioural changes that might indicate dementia include aggression, anxiety or agitation, hallucinations or delusions, repetitive behaviours, and sundowning – becoming progressively more confused and distressed during late afternoon and early evening periods.
Managing symptoms
Firstly, the charity recommended 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 checksCheck 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 ideaCheck 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 helpMake sure the person is comfortable – for example not cold, hungry, thirsty, or needing the toilet
Other symptoms of dementia include:
Memory lossDifficulty concentratingFinding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shoppingStruggling to follow a conversation or find the right wordBeing confused about time and placeMood changes
If you or someone you know displays any of the signs of dementia you should speak to a GP.