Nashville, TN – The entire Southeast region is facing a heat wave this week, including Tennessee, which is especially dangerous for people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Seniors are already at higher risk for heat-related illnesses and that risk increases if a person has Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia.
Older Adults and Heat Illness
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says people age 65 and older are “more prone to heat-related health concerns” due to the effects of certain medications, chronic health conditions, and a reduced ability to adjust to temperature changes. And people with dementia are less likely to take safety precautions and understand the risks associated with extreme weather.
“People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia can be vulnerable during extreme weather due to impaired judgment or trouble communicating their symptoms,” said Harlyn Hardin, Program Director at the Tennessee Alzheimer’s Association. “It’s important to check in and have a safety plan.”
Safety Tips
Having a plan for extreme weather can help a person with dementia feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed. The Alzheimer’s Association offers the following tips for caregivers:
- Stay informed. Turn on weather alerts on your mobile device and check local forecasts. Remember that humidity and air quality are also important to monitor during summer months, not just temperature.
- Know the signs of heat illness. The National Institutes of Health’s Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults guide outlines types of heat illness—ranging from sunburn to heat stroke—and outlines signs of each. Dizziness, racing pulse, and confusion are some common signs that a person needs help. Also note that people taking diuretics, sedatives, or certain heart medication may not sweat much, but could still be overheating.
- Stay hydrated. Ensure your loved one is drinking plenty of water, electrolyte beverages, or juice and avoiding drinks with caffeine and alcohol. Dehydration may be difficult to notice in a person living with Alzheimer’s, since they may not be able to share their symptoms. Your best option is to focus on good hydration throughout the day.
- Stay indoors and out of the sun. Keep individuals cool by using air conditioning at home or going somewhere cool, such as a local senior center or mall. If you must go outside, be sure the person with Alzheimer’s is wearing loose, light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher and limit their time in the sun as much as possible
- Prepare for behavioral challenges. Research shows that heat can increase agitation and confusion in people with dementia. Try to remove behavioral triggers by addressing the person’s physical needs related to the heat, then tending to their emotional needs.
Today, there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, including more than 120,000 in Tennessee. If you need help during the heat wave, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
About Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®.
Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
