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ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Extreme heat and triple-digit heat indexes can be life threatening for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia-related illnesses, according to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). Even with the extreme heat in South Georgia, AFA said there are several ways to keep loved ones safe.

According to the AFA, wandering is one of the most common and dangerous behaviors that dementia patients have. Loved ones can become disoriented quickly, exposing them to the heat and humidity. Conditions like heat stroke can develop in minutes.

Dementia can also make it difficult to detect temperature changes, putting patients at a higher risk for heat stroke. AFA recommends looking for the following symptoms:

• Excessive sweating
• Exhaustion
• Hot, dry or red skin
• Muscle cramps
• Rapid pulse
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Sudden changes in mental status

If someone is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should:

• Place them in a cool air conditioned place
• Remove clothing
• Apply a cold compress
• Give them plenty of fluids
• If symptoms worsen call 911 immediately

“Extreme heat is especially dangerous for someone with dementia, because dementia can impair their ability to notice if they are developing heat stroke or dehydration...Taking a few simple steps will go a long way to help caregivers keep their loved one with dementia safe during the heat wave.”

AFA said there are several reasons why wandering may occur, but some of the most common include lack of stimulation, seeking purpose or unmet needs — like being hungry or thirsty. The AFA said there are a few ways to limit the chance of wandering:

• Ensuring a loved one has basic needs met
• Create walking paths around the home with visual cues and stimulating objects
• Engage the loved one with simple tasks
• Offer engaging activities like games, music and crafts   

The AFA also recommends keeping a recent photo and medical information on hand in the event of a wandering incident. Sharing familiar destinations and habits with first responders can expedite search and rescue efforts.

Those with dementia may not know they are thirsty. That’s why AFA encourages caregivers to monitor fluid intake. Caregivers should encourage hydrating regularly. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages to prevent dehydration.

Those that need help or help taking care of someone with dementia can call the AFA hotline at 646-232-8484. For more information, you can visit the AFA website by clicking here.

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