Supporting a person living with dementia in cold weather

A person with dementia may struggle to explain how they’re feeling in the cold, and what they need to keep warm. They may forget to wear appropriate clothing, such as jackets, scarves, gloves, or even forget to turn on the heating. Overall, winter can be a particularly difficult time for somebody living with dementia.

Make sure they’re dressed appropriately

People with dementia won’t always remember to dress appropriately for colder weather. It is important to make sure they are wearing the right clothes and cover all exposed skin. Ensure the person has a hat and scarf on and gloves to keep the hands warm. In icy or snowy conditions, it is important to wear appropriate footwear, such as non-skid boots.

Keep the room warm

Make sure any rooms that are used during the day are kept warm – aim between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius. Draught-proofing and roof insulation can also help to maintain a consistent temperature. Another suggestion is to keep a blanket within easy reach of a person living with dementia so that they can grab it if they feel cold.

Encourage regular movement

Keeping active can help boost circulation and help keep someone living with dementia warm. Encouraging indoor or outdoor activities, even if it is moving around at least once an hour, is important to keep them warm and healthy.

Eat and drink regularly

Hot drinks, regular meals and snacks throughout the day can help to maintain energy levels. The person living with dementia should avoid drinking alcohol as it makes you feel warm, but draws heat away from vital organs.

Look out for signs of hypothermia

Dementia can lead to reduced cognitive ability and awareness. This can be challenging for the person to express how cold they may be feeling which can, in some circumstances, lead to hypothermia. If you think someone may be suffering from the effects of hypothermia, call 999 whilst trying to gently warm them. For more information on signs of hypothermia, click here.

For further information on ways to support a person living with dementia, visit Alzheimer’s Society here.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare, we can help support you and your loved ones with our expertise in delivering Dementia Homecare. We know that being diagnosed with Dementia can have a huge emotional, social, and psychological effect on both the person suffering and their family. Therefore, we ensure specialist care in the comfort of one’s own home.

To find out more about how best we can help you in the days and weeks ahead please call us on 0203 008 5210 or email info@cavendishhomecare.com.