Summer Heat Safety for Seniors with Dementia
Central Florida summers bring high heat and humidity. Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related illness, and people living with dementia face extra risk because they may not recognize that they are too hot or thirsty, or be able to tell you how they feel.
Why the risk is higher
- The body’s ability to regulate temperature declines with age.
- Some medicines, such as diuretics and certain blood pressure or psychiatric drugs, make it harder to handle heat.
- People with dementia may forget to drink, dress too warmly or wander outdoors.
Keep them hydrated
- Offer water and other fluids often throughout the day; don’t wait for them to ask.
- Serve water-rich foods such as watermelon, grapes, cucumbers, soups and frozen fruit pops.
- Use a favorite cup, and keep drinks within easy reach and sight.
- Ask the doctor how much fluid is right, especially for people with heart or kidney conditions.
Keep them cool
- Keep the air conditioning on and working, and have a plan if it fails.
- Dress them in light, loose, light-colored cotton clothing.
- Plan outdoor time, such as walks or porch visits, for early morning or evening.
- Never leave anyone in a parked car, not even for a minute.
Know the warning signs
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and cool, clammy skin. Heat stroke is a medical emergency: watch for a high body temperature, hot red skin, confusion that is worse than usual, a rapid pulse or loss of consciousness. Call 911 and begin cooling the person right away.
Because confusion is already part of dementia, caregivers should watch for any sudden change in behavior on hot days.
Have questions about memory care for someone you love? Call Generations Senior Living at (352) 474-2696 or schedule a tour of one of our three homes near The Villages.
