Experts are sounding the alarm that a peculiar habit involving the fridge might signal an little-recognised symptom of dementia.

If you catch a loved one engaging in this behaviour, it could be time to consult a GP. , which is typically more prevalent in those over 65, is defined as a set of related symptoms associated with the progressive deterioration of the brain and currently impacts close to a million people in the UK.

Certain symptoms such as memory loss, behavioural shifts, and issues with speech and language are relatively well-known. However, some signs can be more obscure and turn up where you least expect them.

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The in Canada has highlighted "misplacing things" as a potential indicator of dementia. This may involve someone placing inappropriate items in the refrigerator, like a TV remote.

On their website, the charity emphasises how crucial it is to recognise the most common early warning signs of dementia for timely diagnosis. It prompts people to consider: "Are you, or the person you know, putting things in places where they shouldn't be?"

However, this should be distinguished from typical moments of forgetfulness. The charity states: "Anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or keys. However, a person living with dementia may put things in inappropriate places. For example, a remote in the refrigerator."

According to the Alzheimer's Society in the UK, a common symptom to watch out for in dementia is the frequent loss of personal items due to memory issues. They stated: "People with dementia often lose items as a result of their memory loss."

The individual may mislay everyday items like glasses or keys, leave them in unexpected places – think a TV remote in the bathroom or tea bags in the fridge – which not only causes confusion but can lead to distressing misconceptions.

The charity added "If the person thinks an item should be somewhere and it's not, this may lead them to think that someone is hiding or stealing things from them."

Such delusions can be challenging for both those experiencing them and their carers. The charity advises trying to understand the affected person's perspective, reports .

Hoarding behaviours may also emerge as individuals seek a sense of order amidst confusion. Importantly, the society cautions: "It is also important to note that there may be truth in what the person is saying – don't dismiss it because they have dementia."

To aid someone with dementia who is coping with these problems, it's essential to reach out to medical experts. While no cure exists, support and treatments are available to help manage symptoms.