Loss of co-ordination and manual skills Medical and physical
issues My father finds it difficult to manipulate objects, but
he is so determined. When he takes his time, he usually manages,
unless he feels that people are waiting or watching him. I
sometimes give him encouragement or distract him to do something
else if it seems obvious that the task is too difficult. You may
have noticed how difficult it can be for the person with
dementia to fasten a button, switch on a light or pick something
up. They might even have difficulty walking. This problem is
sometimes referred to as “apraxia”. Such problems with co-
ordination and manipulation have repercussions on daily life,
causing difficulties dressing and washing. In certain cases, a
person with dementia completely loses the ability to stand or
walk, even though there is no physical disability. This is
because, although there is nothing wrong with the arms, hands
and legs, the brain can no longer transmit the appropriate
message to the limbs. Sometimes it is