‘It’s a massive risk’: Alzheimer's charity warns over dehydration as temperatures climb
Warning issued as hot weather puts people living with dementia at greater risk of dehydration and confusion
Birmingham families are being urged to take extra care of loved ones living with dementia as temperatures continue to climb across the region, with a leading charity warning that hot weather can pose serious health risks.
Alzheimer’s Society says people living with dementia are more vulnerable in heatwaves because they may struggle to recognise when they are thirsty, or remember to drink enough water.
Britt Greenfield, team leader at Birmingham's Alzheimer’s Society, says dehydration and overheating are among the biggest dangers.
“There’s quite a few risks really, mainly around dehydration and overheating,” she says. “People are going to be less able to recognise that maybe they’re thirsty, maybe they’re too hot.”
She adds that memory loss can make simple routines much harder in warm weather.
“They might forget what time of year it is and wake up in the morning and put a thick jumper on,” she explains.
The charity says encouraging hydration can be challenging, particularly for families caring for relatives with dementia who may refuse drinks or forget.
Britt says simple approaches can make a difference.
“It’s food that’s high in liquid, lots of fruit, ice lollies, making it more social,” she says. “So rather than pressure, it’s ‘let’s go and have a cup of tea together’.”
She also highlights products such as Jelly Drops, which are designed to deliver hydration in a more accessible way.
“They’re about 99% water, but they look like a sweet,” she says. “So you’re getting that hydration without really recognising it.”
Some of the early signs of dehydration and overheating, include confusion and lethargy.
“They might be a little bit more confused, have slower reaction times,” Britt says. “You can sometimes hear if someone has a dry mouth, and physically they may be more sweaty.”
The charity also highlighted national statistics showing the scale of the issue locally and across the UK.
“Dementia is the biggest killer in the UK at the moment,” Britt says. “In the West Midlands there’s approximately 87,000 people with a diagnosis.”
She says despite the scale of the condition, awareness around how heat affects people living with dementia is still not strong enough.
Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people to check in on neighbours and relatives, especially those who may be isolated or without regular care.
“If you’re on the phone with them, encourage them to go and have a drink while you’ve got them there,” she says.
The charity’s support line 0333 150 3456, remains open seven days a week for families needing advice.