Summer Heat Poses Hidden Dangers for Dementia Patients, Doctor Warns

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Health Awareness Month, and according to the National Institutes of Health, more than six million people in the U.S. are living with dementia. As temperatures rise across the region, doctors say the heat brings added risks for those patients.

Dr. Hiba Khan, with the Center for Brain Health & Neurological Institute at Cleveland Clinic, says getting outside in the sunlight is still important for people with cognitive decline. "It's helpful for their sleep cycle and everything, for their mood," Khan said. However, she warns that spending too much time in summer heat and humidity can be dangerous for these patients because their bodies have a harder time sensing and reacting to temperature changes, and they may not be able to communicate how they're feeling.

"Our patients are very much likely to develop dehydration, heat stroke, and other complications from the heat earlier than an average person would if they were outside for too long," Khan said.

To keep patients safe, Khan says they should always have a companion with them. That person can encourage walks and time outdoors, while also reminding the patient to drink water often. Since plain water isn't always well received by some dementia patients, Khan suggests trying flavored water or fruits with high water content, like watermelon, to help with hydration. She also recommends sun protective clothing, noting that sweating changes with dementia. "Most patients are not sweating like an average person would, and that's an important mechanism that our body has to let some of the heat out," Khan said.

Khan says caregivers should also watch for warning signs that are unusual for the patient's baseline, like sudden changes in mental status, confusion, or disorientation.