• A viral hand exercise claim for dementia prevention is being circulated, but experts advise caution.
• General exercise and cognitive stimulation are beneficial for brain health, but no single exercise is a guaranteed preventative measure.
• A healthy lifestyle, including physical activity, mental engagement, and a balanced diet, is recommended for reducing dementia risk.

A chiropractor's claim on Instagram suggested that a specific hand exercise could prevent dementia. This claim was met with skepticism from experts at the Alzheimer's Society, who emphasized that while exercise and cognitive stimulation are beneficial, there's no 'simple hack' to prevent the condition. They advocate for a broader approach encompassing a healthy lifestyle.

• What: A viral Instagram post claimed a hand exercise could prevent dementia, prompting expert responses.
• Who: Dr. Suzi Schulman (chiropractor), Dr. Tim Beanland (Alzheimer's Society), NHS, The Lancet.
• When: The claim went viral recently. The Lancet's study and NHS guidelines are ongoing/established.
• Where: Claim originated on Instagram; discussion focused in the UK.

The article critically examines the claim that a simple hand exercise can prevent dementia. It highlights the importance of consulting experts and relying on evidence-based advice rather than viral trends. The analysis emphasizes a holistic approach to dementia prevention, including regular exercise, mental stimulation, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

There is some evidence that practising motor skills can help to maintain useful cognitive abilities like attention and spatial awareness into old age... This is not the same thing as preventing dementia.

While we are supportive of people doing activities that work both the mind and body, such as dancing or tai chi, we need to be careful not to create false expectations that there is any one ‘simple hack’ to prevent dementia... In reality, things are much more complex than this.

Overall, the evidence suggests that we can reduce our risk of dementia by making a wide range of healthy changes, particularly from mid-life onwards... Amongst others, these include staying physically, mentally and socially active, keeping to a healthy weight, not smoking, and not drinking too much alcohol.

While engaging in motor skills exercises might offer some cognitive benefits, experts refute the notion that a single hand exercise can prevent dementia. A comprehensive approach involving regular physical activity, mental stimulation, and a healthy lifestyle is recommended for reducing the risk. It's crucial to consult medical professionals and rely on evidence-based strategies for dementia prevention.