Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers information to help family caregivers keep loved ones safe during dangerous heat

With summer bringing widespread heat for millions of people, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is providing tips to help families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses keep their loved ones safe. 

“Extreme heat is especially dangerous for someone with dementia, because dementia can impair their ability to notice if they are developing heat stroke or dehydration,” said Senior Director of Educational and Social Services Jennifer Reeder. “Taking a few simple steps will go a long way to help caregivers keep their loved one with dementia safe during the heat wave.”

AFA advises family caregivers to take the following steps:

Take steps to prevent wandering – Wandering is a common and potentially dangerous behavior for individuals with dementia, as they can get lost or become disoriented, and not know how or who to call for help. It’s even more dangerous in extreme heat conditions, where heat stroke can develop in minutes. There are many reasons why someone with dementia wants to go outdoors. Being outside may provide a feeling of purposefulness or satisfaction; be a response to excessive stimuli; triggered by the need to get away from noises and people; or a response to an unmet need (i.e., hunger, thirst, boredom). Reduce the chances of wandering by identifying consistent and sustainable ways to support these experiences in a safe environment: create walking paths around the home with visual cues and stimulating objects, engage the person in simple tasks, or offer engaging activities. Ensuring basic needs are met can also reduce the chances of wandering.

Keep information handy — Keep a recent photo and medical information on hand, as well as information about familiar destinations that are currently, or formerly, frequented, that can be shared with emergency responders if the person wanders. This will expedite search and rescue efforts. 

Help the person stay hydrated – Dementia can affect a person’s ability to know when they are thirsty, thus making it critically important for caregivers to monitor fluid intake and encourage them to drink frequently. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as these drinks may contribute to dehydration. 

Watch for warning signs of heat-related illnesses – Dementia can make it harder for a person to detect temperature changes, putting them at greater risk for heat stroke. Watch for warning signs such as excessive sweating; exhaustion; hot, dry, or red skin; muscle cramps; rapid pulse; headaches; dizziness; nausea; or sudden changes in mental status. If the person is exhibiting these warning signs, such actions as resting in an air-conditioned room, removing clothing, applying cold compresses, and drinking fluids can all help cool the body. If the person faints, exhibits excessive confusion or is unconscious, call 911 immediately.

Know where to cool down – Many municipalities will open up air conditioned “cooling centers” so that people who do not have air conditioning can go cool down. These centers can include senior centers, libraries, community centers and other municipal/public buildings. If your loved one does not have air conditioning, find out if there are cooling centers nearby. 

Dress comfortably - Choose light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing (like cotton). Avoid layers; switch to short sleeves and sun hats when outdoors.

Be proactive – Make sure the person has plenty of water and access to air conditioning or other cooling mechanisms. Blackouts and other power failures can sometimes occur during heat waves. Make sure that cell phones, tablets, and other electrical devices are fully charged. Flashlights should be easily accessible in case of a power failure. Have the emergency contact numbers for local utility providers, as well as the police and fire departments, readily accessible. If you don’t live near your loved one, arrange for someone who does to check on them. Inform them of emergency contacts and where important medical information can be found, such as their insurance card.

Families with questions or concerns can speak with a licensed social worker through AFA’s Helpline by calling 866-232-8484, sending a text message to 646-586-5283, or web chatting at alzfdn.org. The helpline is open seven days a week.