October 22, 2026
1. Make getting dressed a little easier.
Keep coats, hats, scarves, mittens, and nonslip footwear in an easy-to-find location. Offer simple choices, such as a red coat or a blue coat, and encourage the person to participate in dressing as much as they comfortably can. Layers are helpful because they can be adjusted as temperatures change.
2. Keep the home warm and comfortable.
Check indoor temperatures regularly and aim to keep the home at least 68°F. Warm socks, comfortable slippers, and cozy blankets can help, too. Use space heaters and electric blankets cautiously, as they can create fire and burn risks.
3. Plan ahead for outdoor activities.
Check the weather before heading outside, keep walkways clear of fallen leaves, ice, and snow, and allow extra time when walking. Good lighting and sturdy, nonslip footwear can help reduce falls. If conditions are unsafe, bring the outdoors inside with nature photographs, seasonal decorations, or a sunny spot by the window.
4. Keep familiar routines going.
Shorter days and changes in activity can make routines more important. Maintain familiar meal and sleep schedules, encourage movement indoors, and find enjoyable activities that suit the person’s interests and abilities. Folding warm laundry, preparing a favorite recipe, or listening to familiar music can bring comfort and a sense of purpose.
5. Turn family visits into meaningful moments.
Family members can help with winter preparations while spending quality time together. Invite them to organize warm clothing, prepare a favorite soup, decorate for the season, look through family photographs, or share stories about past winters. The goal isn’t to complete a perfect project; it’s to enjoy time together and support the person’s continued involvement.
6. Make checking in a family effort.
Cold snaps, snowstorms, and power outages can create additional challenges. Families can coordinate regular check-ins, grocery and medication deliveries, transportation, and backup plans if the heat goes out. Sharing responsibilities can help everyone feel more prepared and reduce the burden on a single care partner.
A Gentle Reminder
People living with dementia may not always recognize when they are too cold or understand the risks of icy conditions.
Watch for signs of discomfort and changes in behavior and respond with patience and reassurance. Unusual confusion, slurred speech, significant drowsiness, or uncontrolled shivering after cold exposure may indicate hypothermia, which requires immediate emergency medical attention.
Winter can still be a season of connection. With thoughtful preparation, familiar routines, and support from family and care partners, colder days can offer opportunities for comfort, meaningful activity, and time together.