Published: 15/01/2025
Dementia and The Winter Months
As we transition into the winter months—with shorter days, colder mornings, de-icing cars before work or the school run, navigating icy streets, and shovelling snow-covered driveways—it can feel like a real burden. While these seasonal inconveniences challenge many of us, for the more than 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK, winter can bring even greater risks and challenges.
Winter’s Risks for People with Dementia
Navigating icy conditions is hazardous for everyone. Younger people might avoid serious injury from a slip, but for older individuals—especially those with dementia—falls can have devastating consequences. Dementia affects motor function, coordination, and balance, often accompanied by muscle weakness, all of which increase fall risk. For example, I’ve seen Clients experience falls simply getting out of bed.
As dementia progresses, sensory perception diminishes. The brain processes sensory information differently, delaying reflexes that would normally help break a fall. Impaired spatial awareness affects depth perception, making it difficult to judge distances or navigate obstacles. You may notice your loved one tripping over small objects or stumbling without using their arms to balance, making fractures and severe head injuries more likely.
It’s tempting to limit outdoor activities altogether, thinking it’s the safest option. While this may reduce fall risk, it can negatively impact mental health, leading to feelings of isolation and depression.
Seasonal Depression and Isolation
Many of us experience the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) as sunlight decreases and vitamin D levels drop. The dark, cold winter days can leave anyone feeling unbalanced. For individuals with dementia, this seasonal gloom can worsen sadness, lethargy, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, further isolating them.
Fatigue, Sleep Disturbances, and Sundowning
Winter’s shorter days can confuse individuals with dementia, disrupting their internal clock. Reduced sunlight lowers melatonin, causing fatigue or restlessness. Poor sleep accelerates cognitive decline, as the brain loses repair time to clear harmful proteins.
A disrupted sleep-wake cycle worsens sundowning—confusion and agitation in late afternoons. My grandfather often mistook early winter darkness for night, disrupting his sleep and symptoms. This cycle strains both individuals and CareGivers.
How to Combat SAD and Brighten Winter Days
- Maintain a Consistent Routine: Predictable schedules reduce anxiety and help regulate sleep
- Maximise Light Exposure: Spend time outdoors during daylight hours, even on cloudy days. Consider light therapy to simulate natural sunlight
- Create a Calming Evening Environment: Use soft lighting, familiar surroundings, and soothing music to help with relaxation
- Encourage Physical Activity: Gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or dancing boost mood and improve sleep
- Limit Stimulants and Afternoon Naps: Avoid too much caffeine and ensure enough structured daytime activity
- Provide Nutritious Meals: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and whole grains while limiting processed and sugary foods
- Engage in Social Activities: Participation in hobbies, support groups, or family interactions helps combat isolation
- Embrace Cosy Hobbies: Reading, crafting, baking, or other creative activities can lift spirits and provide mental stimulation
Making Winter Less Lonely
Author: Lee-Anne York, Dementia Lead, Right at Home Stevenage, Bishop's Stortford and Braintree
