Dementia and hot weather

As your attention turns to the warmer weather, it is important to keep an eye on your dementia patient. One of the cognitive declines includes the patient’s ability to tell when they are thirsty and to also recognise when they are getting too hot. If the dementia patient doesn’t realise or recognise the level of heat in the air, they may dress inappropriately for the weather. With too many layers on and not drinking enough water, they are at risk of more confusion, falls and fainting episodes in the heat. 

Drinking and eating

It is not only important that a dementia patient or even an elderly patient drinks enough fluids, they need to ensure that they are eating regularly to replace salts that are lost. Older patients find it more difficult to adjust to sudden changes in temperature, more so than a younger person will. On top of this, some medications may make it more difficult for the body to regulate its temperature when faced with a sudden rise. When it is hot our bodies react by dilating our blood vessels. As they come closer to the surface it enables heat to be expelled from the body. However, some medications may slow or impact this reaction. 

Cold drinks such as water and juices are better than caffeinated drinks, or worse alcohol which remove fluid from the body. Make sure that these drinks are within easy reach, to try and prompt the patient to take on more fluid. Leaving them in the fridge in the kitchen will not be enough.

Regular checks

Check in the dementia patient, particularly if they live alone. They should be encouraged to drink water and hydrating fluids regularly, as well as eating regular amounts. They need to be dressed appropriately and stay within a cool and shaded area. As even in the shaded area outside, in extreme temperatures it can still become too hot. This does not just mean by telephone, it means by visiting them a couple of times a day. A person may sound fine on the telephone but if you are able to see them, you can assess how they are coping in the warmer weather. 

Opt for clothing which is loose fitting and of a light material. With the heat, legs and ankles can be prone to swelling, especially if they have been sitting all day long as well. As a dementia patient tends to have limited concept of heat or feeling hot, they need more care and support on hot days.

Remember that whilst the midday sign is when the sun is at its highest, the temperatures rise significantly throughout the day and by mid to late afternoon it can often be hotter than at midday, so encourage them to stay inside on days when it is really hot. 

When should I be worried?

Keep looking out for the signs of dehydration. Symptoms or signals that indicate something may not right include headaches, dizziness, increased confusion and being excessively thirsty. If you think that someone is suffering from dehydration, move them to a cool room, remove any excess layers and ask them to sit for you. You will need to help them to take on small amounts of fluid, so ask them to sip small amounts of water. Don't leave anything to chance. If you are concerned then you should seek support from your GP or dial 111 for more information. If it is an emergency then you should contact the ambulance service via 999.