LANSING, Mich. — As a polar vortex brings dangerously low temperatures, frigid wind-chill levels, and snowfall to states across the country over the coming days, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is reminding families caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease in these areas about steps they can take to protect their loved ones.
“This type of weather can be hazardous for everyone, but even more so for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, who may have difficulty noticing temperature and weather changes or knowing who to call for help,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President and CEO. “A few easy steps can go a long way to help family caregivers keep their loved one with Alzheimer’s disease safe.”
AFA advises family caregivers to take the following steps to protect their loved one from the cold:
- Know the warning signs of hypothermia. Hypothermia is a concern for everyone in a winter storm, but persons living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia can be at an even greater risk. Some individuals living with a dementia-related illness may find it difficult to detect temperature and weather changes. Look for shivering, exhaustion, sleepiness, slurred speech, memory loss and clumsy motor skills.
- Use electric heaters with caution. Electric space heaters can pose a fire risk especially when used with extension cords or if they get knocked over. To keep individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia safe, use space heaters that automatically turn off when they reach a set temperature or tip over.
- Use traditional blankets, not electric. An electric blanket could burn the skin of those living with dementia without them even realizing the blanket is too hot. While most people can tell when they start to get too warm from an electric blanket, those with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia may be less sensitive to changes in temperature. To keep the person safe, it is better to remove all electric blankets from their home.
- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is increased with the use of the furnace and other heating methods used to keep your house warm. The odorless, tasteless gas can quickly build up to dangerous levels without your knowledge. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause a dull headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, weakness, blurred vision, shortness of breath and loss of consciousness. Check the heating system at least once a year and install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home.
- Stock up. In areas that will be impacted by snowfall, ensure that the person has enough food and water to last until the storm passes and road conditions improve. Be mindful of dehydration, which can cause delirium and death. Make sure their cell phones and tablets are charged in case the power goes out. Flashlights (not candles), blankets and other warm clothing should also be easily accessible in case of power failure. If you don’t live near your loved one, see if there is someone who lives nearby that can check up on them before and after the storm. Inform them of emergency contacts and where important medical information can be found, such as their insurance card.
- Take steps to prevent falls. Snow and ice covering the ground increases the risks of slips or falls that can cause serious injury or death. Persons living with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia may also have vision issues that can make it harder to see ice or realize that a walkway is slippery. Keep all stairs, walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice by shoveling often and using rock salt. However, make sure to not over use the salt as this can cause traction issues.
- Watch out for Wandering. Wandering is a very common, and very dangerous, behavior among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease; it’s even more dangerous in the winter, as the person may become lost when not always dressed appropriately. If your loved one with Alzheimer’s or related dementia does wander off, make sure you have a plan of action. Use a permanent marker or sew identification into their clothes with your contact information. Keep a recent photo and medical information on hand, as well as information about familiar destinations they used to frequent, to share with police and other authorities who will be helping you search for them. You can also look into joining a program that can help you track your loved one with GPS.
- Watch out for Wandering. Wandering is a very common, and very dangerous, behavior among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease; it’s even more dangerous in the winter, as the person may become lost when not always dressed appropriately. If your loved one with Alzheimer’s or related dementia does wander off, make sure you have a plan of action. Use a permanent marker or sew identification into their clothes with your contact information. Keep a recent photo and medical information on hand, as well as information about familiar destinations they used to frequent, to share with police and other authorities who will be helping you search for them. You can also look into joining a program that can help you track your loved one with GPS.
- Be prepared for emergencies. Have the emergency contact numbers for local police department, fire department and utility providers readily accessible.
Families who have questions or would like additional information about caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease can contact AFA’s National Toll-Free Helpline at 866-232-8484 and speak with a licensed social worker. The helpline is open 7 days a week; 9 am to 9 pm (ET) on weekdays and 9 am to 1 pm (ET) on weekends.
