Latest News

Winter Weather Tips

Keep your loved ones with dementia safe through this holiday’s winter storms.

While the snow, wind, and colder temps coming this week are a major inconvenience for most of us, for individuals with dementia, they can be life-threatening. The fact that the winter storm’s arrival coincides with the holidays is creating a quandary for families as they consider travel, holiday family gatherings, and religious holiday services.

The Alzheimer’s Association shares these winter weather tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe:

  • If traveling – Check airline (or train) and highway condition sites, depending on the mode of travel. If possible, depart earlier to avoid likely flight cancellations/delays and poor road conditions.
  • When venturing outside – Dress the person with dementia in extra layers. Put boots or warm shoes on them; and ones with rubber soles. Have them wear a hat, scarf, and gloves/mittens. Cover all skin, so none is exposed to the elements. Watch for slick conditions on sidewalks and driveways. Have them walk slowly and take their arm.
  • In the car – Bring a blanket and have the car heated up prior to having them get in. Limit time outside.
  • Holiday religious services – If an option, go to morning or day services as opposed to evening/night services when temperatures are colder. Also check and see if there is a virtual offering for a service, to avoid going out at all.
  • Holiday family gatherings – See if get-togethers can be moved to occur during the day to avoid taking the person with dementia out in the evening. Ask family members to stop by and visit the person with dementia in their home, so they don’t have to venture outside.
  • Time at home – Dress the person with dementia more warmly even when inside. Put on extra lights to combat the dark winter days/nights. Monitor closely for agitation or restlessness from having to stay inside. Play soothing and joyful music to lift their spirits.

Read more safety tips can by visiting the Alzheimer’s Association website. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline also provides reliable information and support to all those who need assistance. Call the helpline toll-free anytime, even on holidays, at 1.800.272.3900.

Recent Posts

The Battle for Medicaid

Why do cuts to Medicaid matter for Americans over 65? Two experts on aging explain…

6 days ago

Op-Ed: Don’t Blow Out the Candles on the Older Americans Act

Caregiving is committed to publishing a diversity of opinions. The opinions expressed in this op-ed article…

2 weeks ago

Processed Foods

What older adults should know about ultra-processed foods, what they should avoid, and why it…

3 weeks ago

Sponsored Content: Caregiver Grants

Artist focuses on herself, healing in Yosemite thanks to a Road Scholar Caregiver Grant For…

1 month ago

Ongoing Fear

Older Venezuelans in the U.S. struggle with shifting immigration policies Fact checked by Katie Scarlett…

1 month ago

Walgreens Goes Private

What private equity ownership means for healthcare access and pharmacy services Fact checked by Ros…

2 months ago

This website uses cookies.