Alzheimer’s Caregivers Should Be

Extra-Vigilant In Summertime

An Alzheimer’s caregiver daily serves as that person’s vehicle of perception of the world. 

It is a role that becomes even more important during hot summer months when people with Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders may not realize they are thirsty, overheated, and possibly sunburned.  With summer’s heat already upon us, experts suggest measures for keeping your memory-impaired loved one safe amid the high temperatures and strong sun that pose special hazards.

“Many of the medications taken by persons with Alzheimer’s will increase the likelihood of sunburn in a shorter period of time,” said Marcie Albanesi, executive director of The Village at Brookfield Common, a senior living community in Brookfield. “It could also be that person is on a medicine that must be taken with plenty of water. It’s best to assume he or she will spend time outdoors, whether they do or not.”

Because people with Alzheimer’s respond well to an ordered, stimulating routine, incorporating heat-health steps into their daily schedules can be effective. This could be as easy as drinking eight ounces of water and applying sun block at the same time each morning. 

With summer comes a host of uninvited insects, such as mosquitoes, bees, and horse flies. It is especially important for caregivers to become even more vigilant and ensure insect repellant and other treatments are handy.

“People with Alzheimer’s have decreased or deteriorated sensations, so he or she may not realize they’ve been bitten,” Ms Albanesi said. “If your loved one is allergic to bee stings, make sure you have kits on hand and check his or her skin periodically.”

Also take note of your loved one’s attire. Ms Albanesi said people with Alzheimer’s often dress in layers and may go outside overdressed into 90-degree heat.

As for going outside, make sure the person with Alzheimer’s is enrolled in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Safe Return program and wears an identification bracelet.        

“This program works with local law enforcement authorities to locate and return lost people with memory disorders,” Ms Albanesi said.

For information on the Safe Return program or any of their other services, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit its website, www.alz.org.

The Village at Brookfield Common, 246A Federal Road in Brookfield, is a senior living community providing specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. The community also provides independent and assisted living.

Brookfield Common is operated by Benchmark Assisted Living, based in Wellesley, Mass. Visit Benchmark at www.benchmarkquality.com.