PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Whenever there is a heat wave, it is important to use common sense and get out of the heat. For the very young and the very old, this is particularly important because our bodies can't adjust as well to the heat.
But, several new studies have been done in the past few years to highlight an extremely vulnerable group: people with dementia. Climate change combined with an aging population is a major issue.
One of the biggest concerns is the social isolation of the elderly and either temporary confusion from dehydration or impaired judgment by those with dementia.
It is important for all of us to look in on our relatives and friends, but the problem may also require safety nets in our communities.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
