The Coshocton County Beacon August 23, 2023 | Page 29

August 24 , 2023 The Beacon • 29

Weather impacts Alzheimer ’ s patients

As temperatures rise , extreme heat impacts everyone , but it can be especially dangerous for people living with Alzheimer ’ s disease and other dementia . Alzheimer ’ s causes a number of changes that may affect the brain and body including changes in sensitivity to temperatures .

Today , there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer ’ s disease . Taking measures to plan ahead for weather changes , like extreme heat , can prevent injuries and help a person with dementia feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed .

Mary Ertle , program director for the Alzheimer ’ s Association Cleveland Area and Greater East Ohio Area chapters , offers tips for families during the hot summer months :

— Make a plan . Family and friends should make plans to regularly check in on a person living with Alzheimer ’ s disease during extreme heat . Spend time in cooler spaces whenever possible , stay inside when possible and dress in loose , light clothing .

— Pay attention at night . Keep people living with Alzheimer ’ s cool by using fans and air-conditioning . At night low temperatures can still exceed 75 F with little fluctuation in humidity , making for difficult and exacerbating sleeping conditions , heightened anxiety , and increased agitation . Sleep interruptions may increase wandering behaviors .

— Prepare for behavioral challenges . Heat can increase agitation and confusion . It ’ s common for a person living

with dementia to wander or become lost or confused about their location at any stage of the disease . Six in 10 people living with dementia will wander at least once ; many do so repeatedly .

— Stay hydrated . Water intake is essential to maintaining good hydration and health during warm weather . Dehydration may be difficult to notice in a person living with Alzheimer ’ s , and signs like increased fatigue , dry mouth and headache may not be well communicated by the person with the disease .

— Watch the weather . High temperatures aren ’ t the only cause for concern . Humidity and air pollution can cause breathing difficulties and increased confusion . Anyone with Alzheimer ’ s or dementia should be monitored regularly and given immediate medical attention if symptoms like dehydration , heat exhaustion or heat stroke occur .

There are 220,000 Ohioans age 65 and older living with Alzheimer ’ s disease , according to the Alzheimer ’ s Association 2023 Alzheimer ’ s Disease Facts and Figures . That number is expected to increase to 250,000 by 2025 . One in three seniors dies with the disease .

Those concerned about themselves or a loved one can call the Alzheimer ’ s Association 24 / 7 helpline to schedule a care consultation and be connected to local resources , guidance and support . To reach the helpline , call 800-272- 3900 .

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CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAYS

14 TH ANNUAL BEAN AND CORNBREAD COOKOUT ON SATURDAY Plus Soft Ice Cream It ’ s FREE !!

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FRESH BAKED GOODS

SEPTEMBER 1-2 , 2023

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DELI SPECIALS FOR AUG 23- SEPT 5 Black Forest Ham .................... $ 3.49 lb .

WC Swiss Cheese . ................... $ 3.29 lb .

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