With plummeting temperatures, biting winds, and snow and ice blanketing roads and sidewalks, winter comes with plenty of hazards for people of all ages. For seniors with dementia, winter is an even riskier time of year. Below are a few dementia care tips to help you support a loved one during the colder months.

Cold Weather Safety Tips for Seniors With Dementia

1. Invest in Winter Gear

While everyone responds differently to cold temperatures, it takes remarkably little time for hypothermia to set in, and being exposed to any conditions that reduce body temperature to 92 degrees or lower is automatically a medical emergency. Make sure the senior in your care has adequate winter gear to protect them whenever they go outdoors. This includes a warm winter coat, a hat that covers the ears, mittens or gloves that can be pinned to their sleeves, and non-skid boots.

2. Refrain from Using Electric Blankets & Space Heaters

It's best to stay indoors as much as possible when it's dangerously cold outside. However, seniors with dementia shouldn’t rely on electric blankets and space heaters for warmth. Electric blankets can reach extremely high temperatures, and because folks with dementia have slower response times, they may not realize if they're getting burned. Space heaters are dangerous and can start fires if knocked over. Instead, make use of the home's furnace, dress the senior in layers of clothing, and provide them with traditional blankets and throws to stay warm.

3. Exercise Extra Caution When Outdoors

When providing dementia care to a senior, you'll need to accompany them out of the house from time to time throughout the winter. Whether for a doctor's appointment, a trip to visit family or friends, or just a breath of fresh air, be sure to exercise caution whenever you're in the outdoors. Don't leave the senior unaccompanied; automatically assume all surfaces are slippery. Move slowly, supporting the senior with each step; and purchase an ice-grip tip for canes, which has multiple prongs for a sturdier grasp of slick walkways.

Visiting Angels of Northeastern Connecticut offers dementia care to the Tolland, Windham, and Hartford County areas. Their home health aides are dedicated to giving the highest levels of non-medical assistance and help with the tasks of daily living. Call (866) 872-6084 or visit them online to schedule routine help or respite care services.