As temperatures rise, extreme heat can impact everyone’s safety, but these conditions can be especially stressful and confusing for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 

“Alzheimer’s disease causes a number of changes in the brain and body that may affect the individual’s safety, including changes in sensitivity to temperatures,” said Jim Hammelev, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado.

According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, people living with Alzheimer’s were 8% more likely to die on an extremely hot day, with an added 6% increased risk for individuals with previous hospital admissions for atrial fibrillation.

There are more than 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, including 91,000 Coloradans. Planning ahead for weather changes, including extreme heat, can prevent injuries and help a person feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed.

“People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias can be more vulnerable than normal during extreme weather because their judgment may be impaired and they may be unable to communicate their discomfort,” said Hammelev. “It’s important to take extra precautions with these individuals during periods of extreme heat or other severe weather conditions.”

These important safety tips from the Alzheimer’s Association will enable caregivers and families dealing with Alzheimer’s and other dementias to prepare for the hot days ahead:

Make a plan. 

Family and friends should prepare accordingly and make plans to regularly check in on a person living with Alzheimer’s during periods of extreme heat. Arrange alternative plans for cooler spaces if air conditioning is unavailable

Pay attention at night. 

Keep people living with Alzheimer’s cool by using fans and keep the air conditioning on. At night, low temperatures can still exceed 75 degrees with little fluctuation in humidity levels, making for difficult sleeping conditions, heightened anxiety and increased agitation.

Prepare for behavioral changes. 

Research shows that heat can increase agitation and confusion in people. Try to remove behavioral triggers by addressing the person’s physical needs related to the heat, then tending to their emotional needs.

Stay hydrated. 

Increased water intake is essential to maintaining good hydration and health during extreme heat. Know the signs of heat exhaustion to avoid heat stroke. Dehydration may be difficult to notice in a person living with Alzheimer’s, as signs like increased fatigue, dry mouth and headache may be difficult to detect. People taking diuretics, sedatives or certain heart medications may not sweat as much as others, but this does not mean they are not hot.

Shelter indoors out of the sun. 

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion may occur in extreme heat but symptoms may be difficult to detect in people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Keep individuals cool by using air conditioning at home or move to a public place, such as a senior center or shopping mall. If you must go outside, dress appropriately with loose-fitting, light clothing, wear a hat and apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Keep informed. 

Keep an eye on local weather forecasts. High temperatures are not the only cause for concern. Humidity and air pollution can cause breathing difficulties. The person should be monitored regularly and seek medical attention if dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke symptoms arise.

The Alzheimer’s Association is available to help families prepare for and cope with such extraordinary circumstances. For more information, visit Alz.org or call the association’s free helpline at 800-272-3900.