Dehydration: Dr Phillipa outlines the main symptoms As temperatures soar in the UK many people are looking forward to soaking up some sun and enjoying the hot weather . However, for some the increase in temperatures can prove dangerous, with certain groups of people especially vulnerable. Health experts have warned that people living with dementia could be one such group.
This means almost one million Brits could be at risk during a heatwave , as research indicates there are more than 944,000 people in the UK who have dementia. And one in 11 people over the age of 65 have dementia in the UK, the NHS says. Due to the associated symptoms of dementia, people with the condition may be less likely to keep themselves hydrated and wear appropriate clothing.
READ MORE Red flag warning signs of debilitating disease that takes four years to diagnose People with dementia are more at risk of health issues such as dehydration during a heatwave (Image: Getty Images) Speaking to Express.co.uk , Lauren Frake, elderly care expert at Taking Care , explained some of the risks that come with dementia and hot weather.
“It’s common for elderly people with dementia to wander, and then potentially get confused or forget where they are,” she said. “Whilst this often causes them distress, in a heatwave the health risks of wandering off or getting lost are more significant, as elderly people who live with dementia may forget to drink adequately during warmer weather or may head outdoors in inap.
