VANCOUVER, B.C. – People living with dementia face unique challenges during summer heat. According to Rosanne Philbrook of the Alzheimer Society of B.C., “Dementia can affect a person’s ability to communicate their needs and recognize when to ask for help, making them particularly vulnerable to uncertainty and emotional trauma caused by the heat or other emergency situations.”
She adds, “We encourage everyone to take some time to connect with your neighbours, friends and family who are affected by the disease – including caregivers – to offer your help and make sure they are safe.” Philbrook advises planning ahead and alleviate the stress of someone living with dementia caused by the sudden changes in locations and environment. Also, create an evacuation plan to ensure a quick response in an emergency and packing an emergency kit are both crucial.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. reminds residents of last year and the province’s unprecedented heat dome and wildfire season that had a fatal impact on some B.C. residents. This year say they these same emergencies and disasters could happen unexpectedly.
