Memory Loss and Winter Safety

In the winter, memory loss presents a number of other unique dangers and challenges that make people with memory loss even more vulnerable than they are at other times of the year. Living with memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is difficult enough, not just for the individuals with these conditions, but for their family members as well. It is important to be aware of the risks and dangers of living with memory loss in the winter. American Senior Communities offers options and solutions to families that need assistance during the holidays and winter season.

Winter Challenges

As you may know, seniors are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, as well as icy conditions. Everyday hazards like snow and ice can cause falls and injuries even for people with full cognitive ability; for those living with memory loss, the danger is even greater.

For example, a person with memory loss may forget where they are and end up wandering around outside in the cold. In some cases, that person may not even be aware that it’s winter time. Memory loss can make a person forget to set the thermostat at an appropriate temperature, leaving them susceptible to hypothermia. There have also been cases of seniors trying to warm up using the stove or oven and forgetting to turn it off, leading to fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and other problems. Space heaters can present another fire hazard when they’re left running. In all of these cases, memory loss can make it difficult for a person to respond to emergencies, meaning help often does not arrive in time.

While this information may seem frightening, it’s not intended to scare you; however, it is important for seniors who live alone and their family members to consider these dangers and take steps to stay safe. While taking safety measures around the home may help to some degree, the best way to keep people with memory loss safe is through caring supervision. If you’re not prepared to provide that level of care, American Senior Communities can help.

At our over 90 communities in Indiana and Kentucky, we specialize in caring for those living with memory challenges like Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. In addition to our memory care apartments, we offer accommodation in our Auguste’s Cottage, a specialized center designed to care for people with memory loss by bringing a social approach and home-like setting to our senior living communities. With programs tailored to all stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia, we can provide the best care possible that addresses the specific needs of these residents. To learn more about our memory care options, visit ascmemorycare.com.

If you’re caring for someone with memory loss, we also offer respite care options that can give you a short term break that allows you to pursue travel plans, recuperate from an illness, start a new job or do anything else you need to do while your loved one remains safe and secure. Respite care stays can be as short or as extended as necessary, so don’t be afraid to make an inquiry. Call the Care Coordination Center at American Senior Communities today by dialing (888) 996-8272; we’re standing by to answer your questions!