Heatwaves and cold spells: protecting the person

In summer, my mum doesn't feel thirsty and won't take off her coat when it's 35 degrees. How do I protect her from the heat – and from the cold in winter?

The internal thermostat malfunctions with dementia: the person doesn't feel thirsty, doesn't realise they're overheating, and doesn't take off or put on clothes according to the weather. Protection becomes your responsibility.

In the heat

• Offer liquids routinely, not by request: a glass every 1-2 hours, within sight and reach. Vary it: cool water, iced tea, jelly, water-rich fruit (watermelon, orange).
• Dress them in the morning in light, pale clothing – if you wait for them to change themselves, they won't. Check for hidden layers (their usual vest).
• At home: keep blinds/curtains closed during hot hours, use a fan or air conditioning, and make the coolest room the day's "base".
• Avoid going out during peak hours; go for walks early in the morning.
• Warning signs: very hot and dry skin, more confusion than usual, lethargy, dark and scanty urine – cool them down immediately (damp cloths, liquids) and contact a doctor/emergency services if they don't improve quickly.

In the cold

• Dress them in warm layers yourself; pay attention to their hands, feet, and head. Check the house temperature (ideally ≥ 18-20 °C) – the person may not complain about feeling cold at all.
• Be extra careful with heaters (burns, fire) and braziers.
• Warning signs: cold skin, shivering OR absence of shivering with drowsiness, slurred speech – warm them up gradually and seek medical help.

Sources: NHS (United Kingdom); Alzheimer's Association.