Simple ways to check for dementia with your fingers and fist

You can check some indicators of brain work with the help of ordinary movements of the fingers and hands. Neurologist Monica Makatarsni-Kovach told The Telegraph about two simple exercises that can help to notice signs of cognitive decline.

The first test involves quickly connecting the thumb and index finger for 15 seconds. After each touch, the fingers should be spread about three centimeters. The exercise is performed alternately with both hands. People without cognitive impairment make an average of 64 touches with their leading hand and 59 with the other hand. With moderate cognitive decline, the indicators are about 54 and 51, respectively.

The second method is based on a consistent change in the position of the brush. First you need to put a clenched fist on the table, then straighten your fingers and then put your palm on the surface. The combination is repeated three times with each hand. According to the neurologist, about one in four people with mild cognitive impairment make mistakes when performing the task. Among patients with dementia, such difficulties occur in about half.

The specialist explained that slowing down movements, loss of rhythm and difficulty in following the sequence of actions can accompany cognitive decline. However, such exercises do not allow you to independently diagnose dementia. The result is influenced by age, joint diseases and other factors. In case of suspicious changes in memory and thinking, you should consult a doctor for a full examination.

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