RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – After two back-to-back snow events, temperatures in the teens and icy conditions, experts say this type of weather can be dangerous for anyone with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
From freezing temperatures to snow and icy conditions, this time of year can be perilous, especially for the more than 165,000 people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s in Virginia.
Rachel Lawson, senior program manager with the Alzheimer’s Association, says dementia patients are easily confused and can often wander and get lost in frigid weather.
That’s why she says it’s essential to be prepared.
That can include having a location device on them and being fully aware of the weather conditions.
“We want to make sure that folks have what they need lined up because we never know when that emergency can hit, Lawson said. ”It may be caused by the weather, or it could be caused by an event that impacts another family member. It could even be the caregiver that is suffering from an emergency.”
Next, she says to ensure the person with Alzheimer’s or dementia is bundled up and warmly dressed in case they wander into the cold.
“Oftentimes, we hear alerts out there about somebody who goes missing,” Lawson said. “And if you listen really closely and hear what they’re wearing when they go missing, typically it’s something that they should not be outside in at that given time. It’s shorts and a T-shirt when it’s cold weather, or it’s sweatshirts and sweatpants when it’s warm weather. And, you want folks to be aware about this.”
Also, prevent slips as much as possible and ensure your loved one is always wearing sturdy shoes.
“We know that as folks continue to age, there’s a risk of falls,” Lawson said. ”But when we add in memory loss and poor judgment with vision or vision concerns, that increases the possibility of somebody living with dementia to have a fall, whether that’s on steps or slippery surfaces.
And finally, buddy up, meaning don’t forget to take care of yourself too.
According to an Alzheimer’s Association survey, 84% of caregivers say they need more support.
“But having that companion, that friend, family member that can buddy alongside of you as the caregiver or the person living with dementia to help in any way,” Lawson said. “We know that caregiving is stressful, and having that support is very important.”
Copyright 2025 WWBT. All rights reserved.