The Alzheimer’s Association is warning that extreme heat and severe weather are dangerous for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

The message from experts on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is to check on neighbors, friends and loved ones during hot weather.

Elizabeth Smith-Boivin is the executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Northeastern New York chapter. She said about one-fifth of people with the disease live alone. That puts them at risk during extended stretches of extreme heat and humidity.

For families of a loved one living with Alzheimer’s, Smith-Boivin said to make sure neighbors were aware of the diagnosis. That information can help them be on the lookout if the person wanders from home, a common symptom.

Neighbors and friends should stay vigilant and check on people three, four or five times a day when temperatures reach dangerous levels.

The disease can affect the part of the brain that detects warmth. People living with Alzheimer’s may overheat if they don’t remember to turn on a fan or get help understanding how to dress.

“And so they’ll often get up in the morning and put on a long-sleeve shirt or a flannel shirt and long pants in 95-degree heat, and as we all know, that’s not the proper type of clothing to wear in temperatures like that. So really kind of looking after folks to ensure that they’re eating and drinking properly and in cool environments and in cool clothing,” Smith-Boivin said.

Individualized help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call 800-272-3900 for more information.