Alzheimer’s and extreme heat: exercise caution As temperatures rise, extreme heat can have a significant impact on everyone’s safety, but these conditions can be especially stressful and confusing for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. “Alzheimer’s disease causes a number of changes in the brain and body that may affect the individual’s safety, including changes in sensitivity to temperatures,” said Jim Hammelev, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado. According to a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), people living with Alzheimer’s were 8% more likely to die on an extremely hot day, with an added 6% increased risk for individuals
with previous hospital admissions for atrial fibrillation. There are more than 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, including 91,000 Coloradans. Planning ahead for weather changes, including extreme heat, can prevent injuries and help a person feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed. “People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias can be more vulnerable than normal during extreme weather because their judgment may be impaired and they may be unable to communicate their discomfort,” said Hammelev. “It’s important to take extra precautions with these individuals during periods of extreme heat or other severe weather conditions.”
30 The Acumen
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