Colder temperatures can bring specific challenges for somebody living with dementia

People with dementia may not always be able to communicate the fact that they’re cold, especially if they don’t recognise it themselves.

As temperatures begin to plummet, and forecasters predict snowfall across Cheshire, some of us may be preparing our sledges and looking forward to building a snowman.

But for many, snow and cold weather can bring huge disruption and anxiety.

At Alzheimer’s Society we know the bad weather and colder temperatures can bring specific challenges for somebody living with dementia and can sometimes make symptoms temporarily worse.

People with dementia may not always be able to communicate the fact that they’re cold, especially if they don’t recognise it themselves.

I’d like to offer your readers six tips that may help:

1.         Try to make sure that any rooms that are occupied during the day are kept warm. Draught-proofing and roof insulation will help.

2.         Encourage wearing layers of clothing, ideally with natural fibres, such as cotton and wool. Easy to remove clothing is best to avoid overheating.

3.         Encourage regular movement as much as is possible for the person, such as standing, walking a few steps or rubbing hands together every so often, as this increases body temperature.

4.         Drinking hot beverages can also help people stay warm. Bear in mind that some people with dementia will no longer be able to recognise high temperatures, so avoid giving boiling hot drinks.

5.         If someone feels the cold a lot, they may need to wear a hat, gloves and warm socks if they go out, especially in cold weather - and indoors too, if necessary.

6.         Equipment can be installed to warn of extreme temperatures in the home.

If you’re affected by dementia, call Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Connect support line on: 0333 150 3456 for information, advice and support or visit:

http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/coldweather

...where you’ll find more tips on supporting someone with dementia in cold weather.

Alzheimer’s Society in Cheshire