Restlessness and agitation are common behaviors in people who are experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia. This can manifest in many ways, such as irritability or trying to leave the house, but it also appears through fidgeting.

“Fidgeting” in this sense could mean rubbing or pulling at their clothes or bedding, wringing their hands, twisting their fingers, or doing something to keep their hands perpetually in motion. They may also start pacing or walking up and down the room over and over.

It’s important to know what might be causing these behaviors and what they might be indicating.

Here are some things to know about fidgeting and restlessness in someone with dementia and how to help keep their hands busy.

Fidgeting in Dementia Care: What Does It Mean?

For a person with dementia, their fidgeting could be caused by several things. Overall though, fidgeting results from agitation or restlessness in the person, which could indicate that they’re feeling anxious.

For example, a person may become agitated because of a sudden loud sound, increased noises, or inability to do something that they used to be able to do.

Sometimes, however, they might start feeling agitated and not know why.

Some people might be fidgeting because they are used to having their hands busy doing something like typing, knitting, or even playing an instrument. Suddenly going without it could be an adjustment.

Sometimes restlessness is a side-effect of certain antipsychotic medications. Ask your loved one’s general physician before making any big changes.

In some rare cases, the fidgeting could also be a response to auditory or visual hallucinations. This is more common in specific types of dementia, such as dementia with Lewy bodies.

Keeping your loved ones distracted and their hands busy can go a long way to help with agitation and restlessness. To learn more about these symptoms and how to support your loved one, visit https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/restlessness.

Activities for Dementia Patients Who Are Restless

Luckily, there are many different products and strategies for people who tend to fidget.

But it’s not going to be as easy as handing your loved one a fidget toy and walking away. Keep an eye on how they fidget. What are they able to do? Is the strategy going to be fun for them? Could it overstimulate them?

Be prepared to try various strategies to find the right one for them.

Busy boards and fidget boxes are great tools for those who fidget. You can buy them ready-made or make your own to personalize them for someone you love. Fidget blankets and fidget toys are also great to keep their hands busy.

Sensory toys are great choices because they can promote positive feelings and memories. If your loved one has a beloved pet, stroking their fur could be great. They are giving them a soft blanket or fabrics with different textures work, too!

Dementia Mental Illness: What to Know

Sometimes, Alzheimer’s or dementia is misdiagnosed because the symptoms are similar to those of various mental illnesses. Take agitation and restlessness, for example. These are common behaviors in anxiety as well.

However, it’s important to get your loved one reassessed if you believe their symptoms align more with dementia or Alzheimer’s. This way, you can be sure they’re getting the proper treatment. Read here to learn more about what to look for to differentiate mental illness from dementia!

In some mental illnesses, you’re encouraged to let someone fidget to get out excess energy or help them focus. However, in the case of dementia and Alzheimer’s, leaving your loved one to fidget with nothing in their hands could be a source of anxiety for them.

Remember, you’re not forcing them to stop. You’re giving them something comforting to combat that anxiety and restlessness.

Symphony Senior Living is dedicated to providing comfort, assistance, and care to older Canadians, whether they join us in Assisted Living or Memory Care. We strive to provide kindness, care, and dignity to every resident who comes through our doors and reassurances to the people who love them. To learn more, visit us at https://www.symphonyseniorliving.com.

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