SALT LAKE CITY (KTVX) – Heat can be particularly dangerous for people with dementia, and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is alerting families on how to keep loved ones safe during upcoming heatwaves.
Heatwaves are particularly dangerous for people with dementia, according to Jennifer Reeder, the AFA’s senior director of educational and social services. “Dementia can impair their ability to notice if they are developing heat stroke or dehydration,” she said.
With that in mind, AFA provided some tips so that caretakers can protect their loved ones with dementia.
How to stay cool (and safe) amid a heatwave
First, it is crucial to take steps to prevent wandering. Wandering is a common behavior for people with dementia, and it can be dangerous because they can get lost and not know how to get help. Wandering during a heat wave is even more dangerous, because of the added risks of heatstroke…