How to keep your loved ones with dementia safe in the heat

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Heat can be particularly dangerous for people with dementia, and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is providing information on how to keep loved ones safe during upcoming heatwaves.

Heatwaves are particularly dangerous for people with dementia, according to the AFA’s Senior Director of Educational and Social Services Jennifer Reeder. “Dementia can impair their ability to notice if they are developing heat stroke or dehydration,” she said.

With that in mind, AFA provided some tips so that caretakers can protect their loved ones with dementia.

First, it is crucial to take steps to prevent wandering. Wandering is a common behavior for people with dementia, and it can be dangerous for them, because they can get lost and not know how to get help. Wandering during a heat wave is even more dangerous, because you add the risks of heat stroke on top of existing risks.

People with dementia may wander because they are searching for a feeling of purpose or satisfaction, because they are overstimulated and need to get away from noises or people, or a response to unmet needs like boredom.

Caregivers can help reduce chances of wandering by creating walking paths around the home, engaging the person in tasks, or offering engaging activities. In case someone does wander, caregivers should keep a recent photo, medical information, and places the person may frequent on hand to give to emergency responders.

Next, people with dementia may not be able to know when they are thirsty, so caretakers need to do what they can to keep the person hydrated. Caregivers should encourage them to drink frequently, while avoiding alcohol and caffeine.

Dementia also can make it harder for people to sense temperature changes, which puts them at risk for heat stroke, so caregivers need to know the signs of heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses.

Some signs to look out for include:

• Excessive sweating
• Exhaustion
• Hot, dry, red skin
• Muscle cramps
• Rapid pulse
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Sudden changes in mental status

If the person does not have air conditioning at home, caregivers should know where to take them to help them cool down, such as in “cooling centers” that many cities open during hot months. Usually, these include senior centers, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings.

Caregivers should choose appropriate clothing for the heat: light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing (cotton/linen) and avoid layers.

Finally, be proactive. It is better to take steps ahead of time to protect your loved one than react once something bad has happened to them. Make sure they have water and air conditioning available and prepare for blackouts. Keep information about local emergency services readily available.