As temperatures rise this summer, families caring for loved ones with dementia need to be especially vigilant. Heatwaves can pose serious and often overlooked health risks for people living with cognitive decline.
Dr Jane Pritchard, an Admiral Nurse with The Good Care Group, highlights that dementia patients may not recognize signs of overheating or thirst, making them vulnerable to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. “Individuals with dementia might not realize they are hot or thirsty,” Dr Pritchard explains. “They could keep wearing heavy clothing, avoid drinking water, or stay in direct sunlight without understanding the danger.”
Dementia is a group of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by progressive brain function loss. In the UK, over 944,000 people—about one in every 11 aged 65 and over—live with dementia, according to NHS data.
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While there is currently no cure, treatments can ease dementia symptoms such as confusion, forgetfulness, and communication difficulties. However, heat can exacerbate these issues, making it harder for patients to cope.
Signs of overheating in someone with dementia might not be verbal but are evident through body language, Dr Pritchard says. Watch for flushed skin, agitation, drowsiness, refusal to eat or drink, and clammy skin. “Even if they claim to feel fine, keep fans or air conditioning on, block direct sunlight with curtains, and consider restricting thermostat controls to maintain a cool environment.”
She also advises paying attention to habits that may increase risk. “Someone living with dementia might stubbornly wear thick clothes or neglect to hydrate. Don’t wait for them to ask for water—offer cool drinks regularly, such as water, diluted juice, electrolyte solutions, ice lollies, or fruit.”
Gentle encouragement is key. “Use calm and reassuring language like, ‘Let’s have something cool to drink,’ or ‘Let’s relax in a cooler room for a while.’ These phrases can help reduce resistance and anxiety.”
Additional measures to cool someone down include applying cold, damp washcloths or cooling towels to the neck or wrists, which provide soothing relief even if the person cannot ask for help.
There are several forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, each with unique symptoms. Early signs often include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and problems with language or spatial awareness.
Anyone experiencing potential dementia symptoms should consult their GP promptly.