Hot Weather Safety and Alzheimer’s

Too much heat is not safe for anyone. It is even riskier for older adults and people who have health problems, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Here are ways you can help people with Alzheimer’s disease lower their risk of heat-related illness during the hot summer months:

• If the person lives alone, check in daily to make sure that they are staying cool and hydrated.
• If they live in a home without fans or air conditioning, make sure they keep the home as cool as possible by limiting use of the oven and closing the shades, blinds, or curtains during the hottest part of the day.
• People with Alzheimer’s may wear the wrong clothing for hot weather. Help them find weather-appropriate clothing. Some people find natural fabrics, such as cotton, to be cooler than synthetic fibers.
• Remind the person to drink lots of water or juice, as long as their doctor hasn’t recommended limiting fluids because of another condition.
• If the person with Alzheimer's disease needs help paying for cooling their home, they can contact their local or state Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program to apply for assistance.

Source: National Institute on Aging