It’s common for people with dementia to feel cold all the time, even when the temperature is warm. It can be a frustrating problem for both the person with dementia and their caregivers, as it often seems like there’s no easy solution to the problem.
There are several potential causes of the feeling of being cold in people with dementia. These include physical changes due to aging, changes in medication, and changes in the brain due to the development of dementia.
Changes in the Physical Body
As we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature. Muscles that once kept us warm start to weaken, and our metabolism slows. This can cause us to feel chilled more easily, meaning that we’re more likely to seek out warmer temperatures.
In addition, certain medications can cause us to feel colder than normal. Blood pressure medications, for example, can cause us to feel chilled. People with dementia may also be more sensitive to cold, as their bodies can’t adjust as quickly to temperature changes.
Changes in the Brain
As dementia progresses, changes occur in the brain which can affect how it perceives temperature and how it regulates body temperature. The result can be that a person with dementia feels cold all the time, even when the temperature is comfortable for others.
In addition, people with dementia may experience changes in their perceptions of time and space. They may not be able to accurately gauge how much time has passed, and they may not be able to accurately gauge the temperature of their environment. This can lead to feeling cold even when they’re not.
Coping with Feeling Cold
For people with dementia, it’s important to stay warm. This can be accomplished by wearing several layers of clothing, using a heated blanket or hot water bottle, and avoiding drafts. It’s also important to keep the person hydrated, as dehydration can make them feel cold.
In addition, it can be helpful to provide reassurance to the person with dementia. It’s important to remind them that the feeling of being cold is common for people with dementia, and that it doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with them.
It’s also important to encourage the person to get regular exercise, as this can help keep them warm. Light exercise can help increase circulation, which can help keep them comfortable.
Seeing the Doctor
If the feeling of being cold persists, it’s important to see a doctor. The doctor can check for any underlying medical causes, such as anemia or thyroid problems, and can adjust medications if necessary.
It’s also important to keep an eye out for signs of hypothermia, which can be dangerous in people with dementia. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, confusion, and slurred speech.
Conclusion
While it can be frustrating for people with dementia and their caregivers, feeling cold all the time is a common symptom of dementia. There are several potential causes, such as physical changes due to aging and changes in the brain. It’s important to provide reassurance to the person with dementia and to keep them warm, and it may be necessary to see a doctor if the problem persists.