As autumn arrives in Arizona, cooler temperatures and shorter days usher in unique challenges and opportunities for those caring for individuals with dementia. Here’s how caregivers can manage dementia care throughout the season, keeping loved ones safe, comfortable and healthy.
Adjust to Shorter, Cooler Days
Cooler weather can make individuals more sensitive to cold, especially since they may not always be able to express discomfort. Monitor how the changing temperature affects your loved one. Provide a sweater, blanket, warm socks, and head wear as needed.
In addition, autumn’s shorter days may cause dementia patients to experience mood changes. Symptoms like confusion, irritability, or agitation are known as “sundowning.” To combat this, maximize exposure to daylight during the morning and early afternoon, and keep indoor environments well-lit as the evenings grow darker earlier.
Maintain a Consistent Routine
A regular routine is crucial for individuals with dementia, and seasonal disruptions can be unsettling. A set daily schedule helps reduce anxiety and confusion. Stick to specific mealtimes, bathing time, and bedtime to provide a sense of stability.
Include physical activity as part of the routine. Short walks and enjoying fresh air on a porch can help get their blood flowing.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Ensure the home remains warm and comfortable by using heaters safely, making blankets accessible, and setting the thermostat at a comfortable level. Adding lamps or brighter bulbs can help keep the environment cheerful and well-lit.
As temperatures drop, trip and fall hazards can increase. Make sure walkways are clear, use non-slip mats, and check that any fall risks in and around the home have been addressed. Mobility issues may worsen with cooler weather, so consider reassessing the home environment for accessibility.
Engage in Fall Activities
Arizona’s autumn is awesome and offers numerous dementia-friendly events and activities. Take your loved one to a local festival or visit a pumpkin patch. Scenic drives or nature walks can offer a safe and enjoyable way to engage with the season. These activities provide opportunities for mental stimulation and social interaction. Look for events that are quieter and less crowded to ensure your loved one can enjoy them without becoming overwhelmed. And always take their energy levels into account when planning activities.
Manage Emotional Well-being
Shorter days and reduced sunlight can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Symptoms include lethargy, sadness or irritability. Increase outdoor time spent during the day and incorporate light therapy lamps into their routine to improve their mood.
In addition, regular interactions with family and friends can support emotional well-being and provide a sense of connection and comfort. Encourage in-person and virtual social activities to help prevent feelings of loneliness.
With thoughtful adjustments, autumn in Arizona can be a season of comfort, connection and enjoyment. By adapting routines, creating a safe and comfortable environment, and encouraging engagement in seasonal activities, caregivers can help their loved ones thrive during this and all times of year.
Turn to Diamondback Health’s Desert Diamond Dementia Pavilion for additional resources for caring for individuals with dementia.