Neurologist Adnan Hussain has shared a quick three-step hand assessment designed to identify potential signs of dementia and evaluate brain function, according to a report by the NY Post.
The exercise, known as the Luria test or the Fist-Edge-Palm test, assesses how effectively the frontal lobe of the brain manages motor skills, executive function, and sequencing.
To perform the test, a person must first form a fist with one hand and place it against the palm of the other hand. Next, they open the hand and place it pinky-side down on the opposite palm in a karate-chop gesture. Finally, they turn the hand flat to tap the open palm against the other hand.
The entire sequence must be completed rapidly and without any pauses between the movements.
Hussain explained that some individuals are unable to execute the sequence smoothly. He noted that people struggling with cognitive impairment may become stuck repeating a single gesture continuously or skip steps in the series entirely.
Brain Function and Alzheimer's Risk
Research indicates that more than 50 percent of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, which is the most frequent cause of dementia, encounter difficulties when attempting the test.
Dementia affects more than 10 million people worldwide each year, with early-onset forms of the condition impacting individuals between 50 and 60 years of age. While memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating are widely recognized symptoms, the neurological disorder can also progressively impair physical coordination and movement control.
The frontal lobe plays a critical role in controlling voluntary movement, decision-making, and complex problem-solving. The Fist-Edge-Palm movement task was originally developed by Soviet neuropsychologist Alexander Luria to detect frontal lobe dysfunction in clinical settings.
Seeking Medical Advice
While failing the three-step hand test does not constitute a formal diagnosis of dementia, medical experts emphasize that poor performance can highlight underlying cognitive issues. Hussain advised that anyone who experiences persistent difficulty with the movements should consult a healthcare specialist for a comprehensive medical evaluation.
