Winter weather conditions — colder temperatures, snow and ice and early darkness — can be challenging and stressful for the more than 11 million people caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Perhaps most frightening is a loved one with dementia who wanders out into freezing temperatures. According to an Alzheimer’s Association study, 6 in 10 people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia will wander and become lost at some point. Many do so repeatedly.
By preparing in advance, caregivers can make a big difference in keeping their loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia safe. The Alzheimer’s Association Northeastern NY Chapter offers some safety tips for navigating the winter season as an Alzheimer’s or dementia caregiver, such as:
- Be prepared. Winter storms can be dangerous. Check weather conditions regularly and have contingency plans in place. For example, if a snowstorm is predicted, consider rescheduling appointments that are not urgent. Tackle to-do lists in one trip to avoid making multiple trips.
- Bundle up. Help the person living with Alzheimer’s dress warmly for winter weather conditions by covering exposed skin. A good option to consider is wearing several layers of lightweight clothing for easy movement.
- Prevent slips. Balance and mobility can be a challenge for a person living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, so assume all surfaces are slick. Assist the person living with dementia by wearing sturdy shoes and walking slowly when outside. Perception problems can also make it difficult for the person living with Alzheimer’s or dementia to see ice on sidewalks or realize that ice is slippery or that snow is not a solid surface. Keep sidewalks and driveways clear and utilize handrails or walk arm-in-arm. Also consider acquiring a State-issued Handicapped placard to enable closer access to the door of buildings.
- Prevent wandering. Wandering is one of the most frequent and challenging problems that caregivers face and can be extremely dangerous in colder conditions. While the term ‘wandering’ may suggest aimless movement, individuals who wander have a destination and a purpose. For example, a person who wanders may have a personal need such as going to the bathroom. But since people living with dementia can become disoriented even in a familiar place, this simple task can become a challenge. This might prompt a person to wander around the house, looking for the bathroom and maybe even open the front door. If a family member does wander, start by searching the immediate vicinity, including “less-traveled” areas in your home. Outside the home, search the yard and nearby surroundings. Most wanderers are found within a half mile of their homes or starting location. If, after 15 minutes, the person is not located, call 911 to file a missing person’s report. Ensure a swift response by alerting the police that the individual has Alzheimer’s disease and is a “vulnerable adult.”
- Make daylight last. Winter months bring decreased sunlight and shorter days. Visual perception can be a challenge for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and can cause increased confusion or disorientation in dark or shadowy environments both inside and out. Turn on indoor lights earlier or install timers, open curtains during daylight hours, and consider installing motion detector lights to help illuminate walkways around the home as darkness may fall before arriving home from an outing.
Today, there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, including 410,000 New Yorkers. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends are serving as caregivers, including 586,000 in New York.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.