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With the warm weather and the summer holidays almost upon us, many people are heading out on their holidays. Whether you’re planning a staycation in the UK or you’re going further afield, if you’re travelling with someone with dementia, it’s important to keep an extra eye on their health during warmer weather. Here are some tips to help family and friends during hot weather while on holiday.

Try to keep them hydrated

This is an important one for everyone, not just those with dementia, but remembering to drink can be especially challenging for anyone travelling with dementia. There are a couple of ways you can prevent dehydration, including leaving glasses or jugs or water in the vicinity or keeping bottles of water on your person while out and about.

Other ways to help with hydration is to use straws, make a point of sharing drinks together and providing food with a high water content. You can use things like ice cream, jelly or fruit, like water melons.

Try to keep them dressed appropriately.

People with dementia who are dressing themselves may forget to factor in the weather when choosing an outfit, so leave out clothes that are good for warmer weather, like light coloured fabrics or a hat.

Avoid going out at midday

The hottest part of the day is usually between 11 am and 3pm, so try to plan your trips or any time you will be outside around these times. If you are out and about, make sure to apply sun cream and stick to the shade as much as possible.

Look out for increased confusion

Being dehydrated or overheated can lead people with dementia to be more confused compared to their typical symptoms.

Looking for things to do or places to stay while travelling with dementia? You can find options here.

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