CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — As winter continues, colder temperatures, snow, ice and early nightfall can pose serious risks for the 38,100 individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in West Virginia. For their 65,000 unpaid caregivers, the season brings added stress and challenges in ensuring their loved ones remain safe.
“People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias are especially vulnerable during winter weather,” said Teresa Morris, program director for the Alzheimer’s Association West Virginia Chapter. “Impaired judgment and difficulty communicating discomfort can make it harder for them to respond appropriately to cold or hazardous conditions. That’s why it’s so important for caregivers to take extra precautions.”
In addition, Alzheimer’s disease can cause those living with any form of dementia to lose their ability to recognize familiar places and faces, making it common for a person living with dementia to wander or become lost or confused about their location, increasing the danger of cold weather.
The Alzheimer’s Association offers the following tips to help families prepare and protect loved ones during the winter months:
- Be Prepared: Monitor weather forecasts and have emergency plans in place for storms or power outages.
- Dress Warmly: Ensure individuals wear dry, layered clothing and cover exposed skin to prevent hypothermia.
- Prevent Slips: Assume all surfaces are slick. Assist with walking and encourage slower, shorter steps to reduce fall risk.
- Maximize Daylight: Shorter days and reduced sunlight can increase confusion. Keep indoor spaces well-lit and plan outdoor activities during daylight hours.
- Monitor for Wandering: Cold weather and early darkness heighten the risks of wandering. Watch for signs of restlessness or agitation, especially during late afternoon and evening hours.
- Ask for Help: According to an Alzheimer’s Association survey, 84% of caregivers want more support. Don’t hesitate to ask family, friends, or neighbors for help with errands, snow removal, or other tasks.
Additional winter safety tips and resources are available at alz.org/safety. For immediate support, the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline is available at 1.800.272.3900, offering free, confidential assistance—day or night, even on holidays.
For the first time, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. is more than 7 million. That includes 38,100 in West Virginia, according to the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Deaths due to Alzheimer’s more than doubled (142%) between 2000 and 2022, while deaths from the leading cause of mortality (heart disease) decreased by 2.1%.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s or other dementia and to access free support and resources, visit alz.org/wv or call West Virginia Chapter at 304.343.2717 or the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
