How to care for a person with dementia during hot summer days?

For many, the summer season is an opportunity for a relaxing vacation, spending time at the beach or pool, and days out at fun attractions. But the summer season also brings with it many dangers of dehydration and discomfort. Dehydration is a general danger in old age and especially for people with dementia. The sense of thirst decreases in old age and the sweat glands produce less sweat. Excessive sweating reduces the salts in the body and can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Sometimes a person with dementia does not feel that they are dehydrated because the part of the brain that sends these signals is not functioning well. Sometimes certain medications make dehydration worse. 

Tips for dealing with hot days:

1. Make sure the person is dressed appropriately for the weather. If going outside, be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen. 
2. Cool the living environment and the place where the person is staying to an appropriate temperature. 
3. Avoid going out to an unshaded place during hot hours. 
4. Place water bottles in various prominent locations in the house, thus allowing for quicker and easier access to drinking. 
5. Make sure the person can easily and independently hold the drinking bottle or cup. You can use assistive devices for support, and use a drinking straw. 
6. It is recommended to drink with the person several times a day to make sure they are actually drinking. Sometimes it is easier for them to imitate another person's action than to initiate it themselves. 
7. Reminders to drink can be left around the house, and caregivers should be instructed to ensure adequate water intake. 
8. You can also consume liquids in other forms, such as popsicles and summer fruits. Watermelon, for example, is an excellent solution. 
9. Showers can help cool you down, and you can also use refreshing wipes. 
10. Wandering is a characteristic of dementia. On hot days, there is a risk of rapid dehydration when a person wanders outside unattended. Efforts should be made to prevent the person from going out unattended during hot daytime hours. 

How to identify signs of dehydration? 

1. Excessive sweating
2. Face is redder than usual
3. Worsening level of confusion
4. Dark urine with a strong odor, decreased frequency of urination
5. Dry mouth, lips, and eyes
6. Headaches and/or dizziness, nausea and vomiting
7. Weakness, greater general fatigue
8. Rapid pulse and breathing

If you are concerned about dehydration, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible.