Managing Changing Weather with Dementia

Is your loved one vocal about being too hot or too cold, even if they’re dressed appropriately? The human body’s circulation gets worse with age. Retaining heat throughout the body becomes difficult to do. This means certain limbs may feel numb, or cold. Many American seniors experience bad circulation in their hands and feet. For individuals with dementia, this sensation can become even more confusing. Consider these helpful tips to keep your senior comfortable while they’re in memory care.

As we enter the fall months, it will be common that our loved ones will voice their discomfort with the cold, even if they are dressed appropriately for the weather. This can be dangerous for individuals with dementia and poor circulation in the hands or feet. If a senior struggling with dementia or other forms of memory loss tells you they are freezing while wearing a sweater and jacket, refrain from adding another layer. Consider first how covered, or uncovered, their hands and feet are. Offer a pair of warm socks and slippers to your loved one before putting them at risk of overheating unintentionally. Perhaps consider a knitted hat or gloves and see if their reaction improves.

Since seniors already naturally have a harder time regulating their body temperatures, it becomes even more difficult for elders with dementia to feel comfortable in various temperatures. Alternatively, they may be unaware of how to adjust their clothing for changes in the weather. In colder climates, such as in Colorado, memory care residents may be familiar with the need to dress heavier with more layers. However, they may forget that their living arrangements are heated and kept warmer than the outside. This can put seniors with dementia at risk of overheating as well.

MorningStar of Arvada’s memory care facility takes pride in its astounding team members that selflessly strive to keep our residents safe. Every team member, regardless of role, completes three foundational one-day training as part of joining the MorningStar family as well as training in Radiance (our culture and customer service initiative) and Lavender Sky (our dementia care philosophy and approach to programming). Some states in which we operate require care managers to be certified in both CPR and First Aid. Continuing education is conducted regularly and our Med Tech (QMAPs) are additionally trained in medication administration.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Arvada, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Arvada, Colorado.