Summer in Manitoba can bring very warm weather and heat alerts. It’s important for everyone to take extra care in the extreme heat — older adults in particular and people with some chronic medical conditions can be susceptible to stress and illness from the heat.
Here are some ways to stay safe and well while living with dementia when it’s hot — and help others do so too.
Beat the heat to stay safe
Stay cool
Some people don’t sweat very much, even when it’s humid. Stay out of the heat at the hottest times of the day and seek shade when you are outside. Being exposed to high heat can lead to heat-related problems such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Stay in areas where there is plenty of air conditioning and air circulation. (This can include public libraries, community centres, grocery stores and shopping malls.)
Drink plenty
Thirst declines with age, and older sweat glands don’t produce as much sweat as they used to. Also, the sweat you produce tends to contain more salt. Lack of salt in the body can cause sudden drops in blood pressure.
Drink plenty of water or juice throughout the day, as often as every 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which can make it more difficult for your body to adjust its temperature.
Apply cool cloths
A cool cloth applied to the face, neck and arms, as well as short baths and showers, are other good ways to beat the heat. Avoid heavy meals. Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing.
Watch for signs
Be aware of signs of illness due to excess heat. Muscle cramps, fatigue, confusion, light-headedness and nausea can all be signs of trouble. So can laboured breathing, chest discomfort and a rapid or erratic pulse.
Also, watch for mosquitoes
Hot weather brings out the mosquitoes, and the risk of West Nile virus, which they transmit to humans. Prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellent and covering up with light clothing, including long sleeves and pants.
If you have questions about staying safe in the heat or navigating outdoor temperature changes, contact our First Link® Client Support team by calling 204-943-6622 (Winnipeg) or 1-800-378-6622 (Provincial), or by emailing alzmb@alzheimer.mb.ca.