How Weather Affects Dementia Symptoms

Most of us notice that weather affects how we feel. We may have more energy on bright, sunny days or feel sluggish and low during long stretches of gray skies. For individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, these shifts can be even more pronounced.

Dementia affects the brain’s ability to regulate temperature, mood, sleep patterns, and sensory awareness. As a result, seasonal changes — especially in the fall and winter — can temporarily intensify symptoms such as confusion, agitation, anxiety, and fatigue.

Understanding why this happens, and how to support a loved one through colder months, can make winter feel more manageable and less stressful for everyone involved.

How Weather and Seasonal Changes Affect Dementia

A 2018 study of more than 3,300 people with Alzheimer’s across the U.S., Canada, and France found that cognitive function was measurably stronger in the summer and fall, when days are longer and brighter. During winter and early spring, participants experienced:

• Increased sundowning (late-day confusion, agitation, or irritability)
• More sleep disruptions
• Higher levels of depression and withdrawal

Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures can impact both brain chemistry and daily routines — two things that are especially important for people with dementia.

In addition, dementia can reduce sensitivity to temperature changes, meaning a person may not realize they are too cold (or too warm). This can increase the risk of:

• Hypothermia in the winter
• Heat-related illness in the summer, including heat stroke

(Sources: Alzheimer’s Research Association, NIH)

Because of this, caregivers often need to pay closer attention to cues that may not be spoken aloud.

Supporting Someone with Dementia in Cold Weather

The winter months can still be meaningful, comforting, and enjoyable — with a few intentional adjustments.

1. Help Them Dress for Warmth and Comfort

People with dementia may forget to dress for the weather or not sense when they feel cold. Help ensure:

• Clothing is layered (cotton, wool, fleece retain heat well)
• Feet are covered with warm socks and appropriate winter shoes
• A hat, scarf, and gloves are used outdoors to retain warmth
• Clothing and coats are easy to put on and remove

If walking surfaces are icy, non-slip shoes are especially important to maintain stability and reduce fall risk.

2. Encourage Gentle, Consistent Movement

Movement improves circulation and supports body temperature regulation. Aim for light movement every hour, such as:

• A slow walk around the home or hallway
• Stretching arms overhead or rotating shoulders
• Wiggling fingers and toes
• Light dancing to familiar music

If going outside causes distress, keep activities indoors — the goal is comfort, not pressure.

3. Maximize Natural Light Exposure

Reduced sunlight can contribute to confusion and low mood. Support healthy light exposure by:

• Opening curtains during daylight hours
• Positioning seating near bright windows
• Going outdoors for short, supervised periods if tolerated
• Turning on lights before dusk to reduce sundowning triggers

Even 10 minutes of daylight can shift mood and energy.

4. Know and Respect Their Limits

Some individuals with dementia may strongly resist going outside in the cold — and insisting can heighten anxiety or agitation.

If they are uncomfortable, try alternatives such as:

• Doing a puzzle near a sunny window
• Enjoying favorite music while stretching indoors
• Watching birds or wildlife from indoors with binoculars
• Using a light therapy lamp (if recommended by their care team)

Comfort should always guide the plan.

5. Support Regular Eating and Hydration

Colder temperatures increase the body’s energy needs. At the same time, warm indoor environments can contribute to dehydration.

Try:

• Offering small, frequent meals
• Providing warm drinks like tea, soup, or cocoa
• Limiting alcohol, which falsely creates a sensation of warmth
• Nutritious snacks help maintain energy and warmth throughout the day.

Weather changes can influence dementia symptoms — especially in winter. But with understanding, thoughtful routines, and caring support, these months can still be calm, meaningful, and connected.

If you have concerns about how seasonal changes are affecting your loved one, speak with your care team or nurse. You’re not alone — and support is available to help both of you navigate this season with warmth and understanding.