Families looking after a loved one with dementia should heed an important warning this summer. Even though the season presents an opportunity to bask in some much-needed British sunshine, elevated temperatures can affect dementia patients in ways that are often overlooked.

The alert was highlighted by Dr Jane Pritchard, an Admiral Nurse at The Good Care Group. She emphasised that people facing cognitive decline may not perceive warmth as they typically would, which increases their risk of heatstroke and dehydration.

"Someone living with dementia might not realise they are overheating or feel thirsty," the specialist with more than 20 years' experience said. "They may continue to wear heavy clothing, resist drinking water, or remain in direct sunlight - all without understanding the danger."

Dementia includes various conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, characterised by a gradual decline in brain function. The NHS reports that over 944,000 people in the UK are affected by dementia, which means approximately one in every 11 people aged 65 and older.

While there is no cure for dementia at present, there are treatments available that can ease many of its symptoms. Nevertheless, Dr Pritchard cautioned that many of these symptoms may exacerbate discomfort for people during the summer months.

"People with dementia may not say 'I'm hot,' but their body language will tell you," she went on. "Look out for flushed skin, agitation, drowsiness, refusal to eat, or clammy skin - these can all signal overheating.

"Even if they say they're fine, keep fans or air conditioning running. Block direct sunlight with blackout curtains and consider limiting access to thermostats if they tend to switch off cooling devices."

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Dr Pritchard also stressed the significance of paying attention to a loved one's behaviours. Someone with dementia might keep wearing heavy sweaters out of routine or neglect to hydrate, even during a heatwave.

She continued: "Don't wait for them to say they're thirsty - they often won't. Encourage sips of cool water, diluted juice, electrolyte drinks, or offer ice lollies and fruit. Staying ahead of dehydration is key.

"...People may resist help simply because they're confused or frightened. Use gentle language like, 'Let's have something cool to drink,' or 'It's time to relax in the cool room for a bit.'"

She later added: "Cold, damp washcloths or cooling towels on the neck or wrists can provide instant relief. These simple touches are soothing and effective, even if the person can't ask for help."

Possible dementia symptoms explained

Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia are various forms of the cognitive syndrome. While symptoms can vary between types, early-stage signs commonly include:

• Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
• Being confused about time and place
• Mood changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
• Memory loss

If you think you may have symptoms of dementia, it's important to consult your GP. For additional information, visit the NHS website.