Alzheimer's Awareness Month

September marks International Alzheimer's Awareness Month which aims to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Dispelling the misconception, dementia is an umbrella term for a multitude of degenerative conditions affecting the brain in which AD is the most prevalent out of 200 subcategories, with a national prevalence of 4%. Known as a disorder categorized by disorientation and confusion, its side effects are not exclusively felt by the individual but ripples through the loved ones surrounding them.

Remember: Alzheimer's affects the entire family.

Heat and Those with Alzheimer's

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it’s estimated that more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s in 2021. That means that nearly 6 million Americans are battling the daily effects of Alzheimer’s in these hot summer months. 

Lisa Skinner, behavioral expert in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, highlights the unique effects that hot summertime weather can have on a person battling Alzheimer’s:

“Older adults, and particularly individuals who suffer from Azheimer’s disease and dementia are at a much higher risk during hot weather than their younger counterparts. As we age there are many factors to be aware of. 1) Our bodies are less able to adjust to sudden temperature changes, 2) An elderly individual may have a chronic medical condition that affects their response to heat, and 3) Medications they are taking may not interact well with heat,” says Lisa.