Clingy dementia, or clinginess is the 4th stage of dementia. When people with dementia or Alzheimer's become clingy it usually indicates that they are experiencing confusion at a level that makes them unable to do many simple tasks when alone. They may not understand whether it’s morning or afternoon, Tuesday or Saturday, October or May. They might say, “I’d feel better if I could hold your arm.” They may not be able to verbalize this need and just reach out and take their companion’s arm. People at this stage of dementia need someone to check on them twice a day and are only a step away from needing overnight home care.