Everybody loves the sunshine and pleasant weather definitely has its advantages when you’re caring for a person with dementia. Sitting in the garden, eating an ice cream or taking a stroll in the park all feel far more enjoyable when the weather starts warming up.
However, for the elderly, and particularly those with dementia, summer can throw up a range of challenges, particularly if they live on their own. Megan Cruise, an advisor from the Alzheimer’s Society, explains why people with dementia can be in danger: ‘A heatwave can lead to a vicious cycle. People with dementia may forget to drink enough fluids and wear suitable clothing. Dehydration and high body temperatures can lead to greater confusion.‘
The 4 step summer safety plan for people with dementia
The hottest time is between 11am to 3pm so encourage peo-ple to come inside or ensure they’re sitting beneath the shade.
Set reminders to have a drink. Try using Ulla, the simple drinking reminder. All you have to do is put Ulla around their drinking glass or mug and it will blink brightly at least twice per hour to encourage the person you care about to drink.
Place jugs of water and cups in all the main rooms of the house. If they see the jug it will hopefully remind them to drink. If not, leave a message next to it saying, ‘Take a drink of water.’
Dilute water with squash or slices of fruit if they don’t like the taste of plain water
If the person you’re caring for feels more active and adventurous when the weather is mild, you might want to consider a tracking device to keep them safe, whilst allowing them independence. For more information and to see a wide selection of trackers to suit all people and budgets go here.
Ensure clothing is light and loose to help them stay cool, calm and comfortable. For more information go here. Take cool baths or showers or simply place a wash cloth and some cold water near their seat so they can dab themselves. Invest in an electric fan. They can be bought quite cheaply (you can even get mini fans to fit into handbags) and are an easy way to stay cool. Keep curtains and blinds shut to stop sunshine increasing the temperature of rooms.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration
If someone with dementia becomes overheated, it means their body is unable to cool itself quickly enough. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headaches, nausea and vomiting. If you spot any of these symptoms, take them straight to hospital.
They may also become dehydrated, which in itself can cause symptoms of confusion which many be assumed to be dementia. If a loved one has suddenly taken a turn for the worse, it’s definitely worth thinking about whether they might be dehydrated.
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