Coping with Dementia and Hot Weather
Although it is raining as this is being written, the weather forecast for the next few days is sun and more sun. Whilst most people cope well with higher temperatures, those who have dementia can find hot weather a challenge. The advice given by The Alzheimer’s Society is worth reading: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/how-support-someone-living-dementia-hot-weather
It is important that people drink more water during the summer and not to become dehydrated. The following symptoms could be signs of dehydration:
- Increased bewilderment
- Dark and strong-smelling urine
- Dry mouth, lips and eyes
- Headaches or dizziness
- Feeling tired
- Not going to the toilet very often (fewer than 4 times a day)
If any of the above symptoms are noticed, then please offer the person water to drink and seek medical help if you are worried about the person. If necessary, arrange to take the person to hospital.
The Alzheimer’s Society website also offers ways of helping people not to become dehydrated during hot weather. These are:
- Leave glasses or jugs of water within easy reach.This is especially important for people with limited mobility, who aren’t able to get up and make themselves a drink.
- Make drinking easier.Have a clear glass so the person can see what’s inside (this may not work so well with water) or a brightly coloured cup to draw attention. Make sure the glass is within the line of sight. Having a glass that is suitable (not too heavy or an odd shape) can help. Straws might also be a good idea.
- Make drinking a social occasion.Have a cup of tea or an ice-lolly with the person and make sure they’re drinking during mealtimes.
- Leave reminders. Make sure someone with dementia remembers to drink regularly by leaving notes out for them or putting up notices around the house. You could also set up a phone reminder or set an alarm clock.
Provide high water content foods.Supplement water and other drinks with foods that are high in fluids. Some good options include jelly, ice cream, soup and fruit such as melon.
The following advice is also given:
- Make sure the person is dressed appropriately
If someone with dementia is dressing themselves, they might follow their usual routine and forget to dress for the weather. Light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibres can help keep people comfortable and prevent overheating. A hat or cap for outside is also a good idea. - Keep the house as cool as possible
Check that the central heating isn’t on, and invest in some fans if necessary. Keeping the curtains or blinds closed during the day – especially in sunny, south-facing rooms – can also help to keep things cool. In the evening, open the windows to let the warm air out and colder air in. - Avoid the midday sun
We’re all advised to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (between 11am and 3pm), and this is even more important for elderly people with dementia. When you are out and about, seek out plenty of shade. Keep a bottle of sunscreen on you, and make sure it’s reapplied regularly. - Find ways to cool off
If someone with dementia is hot and agitated, help them take a cool bath or shower. You could also place a wash cloth and some iced water nearby, so they can dab themselves when they need to. Try putting a frozen bottle of water or ice pack next to a fan, for some DIY air-conditioning. - Ask friends and neighbours to pop in and check the person is ok
If you don’t live near the person or are worried about someone – ask a friend or neighbour to pop in and make sure they’re ok. They could stay and have a drink with the person and make sure they have everything they need.
Enjoy the summer!