The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is sharing important safety guidance to help families caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses minimize the risks associated with extreme heat.
“Extreme heat is especially dangerous for someone with dementia because the illness can affect a person’s ability to recognize thirst, communicate discomfort, or realize they may be overheating,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, SIFI, AFA’s Senior Director of Educational and Social Services. “Taking a few simple precautions can help caregivers protect their loved ones and prevent heat-related illnesses during periods of dangerous temperatures.”
AFA advises caregivers to take the following steps:
Watch for wandering warning signs– Wandering is a common behavior among individuals with dementia and becomes especially dangerous during extreme heat, where heat-related illnesses can develop in just a few minutes. A person with dementia who becomes lost or disoriented may not recognize they are overheating or know how to seek help. Someone with dementia may want to go outdoors for many reasons: seeking purpose, responding to overstimulation, escaping noise or activity, or attempting to meet an unmet need such as hunger, thirst, or boredom. Watch for signs such as pacing, restlessness, or anxiety. Reduce the chances of wandering by ensuring the person’s basic needs are being met, as well as by creating safe, stimulating alternatives to going outdoors. These can include walking paths around the home with visual cues, engaging the person in simple tasks, or offering activities like music, crafts, or games.
Keep a recent photo and medical information on hand, as well as information about familiar destinations that are currently or formerly frequented, which can be shared with emergency responders if the person wanders. This will expedite search and rescue efforts.
Monitor fluid intake – Dementia can affect a person’s ability to recognize when they are thirsty, increasing the risk of dehydration. Caregivers should offer fluids frequently and monitor intake. Avoid alcohol and limit caffeinated beverages, which can cause dehydration.
Recognize symptoms of heat-related illness – People living with dementia may have difficulty recognizing or communicating symptoms and distress caused by extreme temperatures. Warning signs can include excessive sweating, exhaustion, hot or red skin, muscle cramps, rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, or sudden changes in mental status.
If signs of heat-related illness manifest, move the person to an air-conditioned or cooler location, remove excess clothing, apply cool compresses, and encourage fluid intake if they can drink safely. Call 911 immediately if the person faints, becomes unconscious, or experiences severe confusion.
Know your local cooling center – Many communities open air-conditioned cooling centers during heat waves. These may include senior centers, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings. Identify nearby cooling centers, even if you have air conditioning in your home, as these can be backup plans in case of a power outage.
Have a plan – Make sure the person has sufficient water and access to air conditioning or other cooling mechanisms. Heat waves can place additional strain on electrical systems, increasing the possibility of power interruptions. Make sure phones, tablets, and other devices are fully charged, and keep flashlights accessible. Have emergency contact information for utility providers, police, and fire departments readily available.
Caregivers who do not live near their loved one should arrange for someone nearby to check in during extreme heat or schedule an in-home aide during the heat wave. Make sure that person has access to important information, including medical records, insurance information, and emergency contacts.
AFA’s Helpline, staffed entirely by licensed social workers who are specifically trained in dementia care, can provide additional information and support for families. The Helpline is available seven days a week by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), and web chat (www.alzfdn.org).
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