(ANSA) – ROME, JUL 19 – Fatigue, sleep disturbances, irritability and states of agitation are frequent consequences of the excessive summer heat, but they have an even greater impact on people with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, in Alzheimer’s patients, the perception of temperatures and body thermoregulation are altered, therefore patients may not realize that they are taking risks due to excessive heat. For this reason, the Italian Society of Neurology (Sin) has decided to launch an alert to patients and caregivers and to offer them some advice to counter the negative effects of heat waves.
“The first good rules to respect concern proper hydration through the intake of 2 or 3 liters of water per day and a diet rich in summer fruit and vegetables that contain a lot of fluids, mineral salts, vitamins, antioxidants and fibers capable of support body and mind “, explains Alfredo Berardelli, president of Sin.
In particular, for patients with Parkinson’s, neurologists explain, “it is important not to indulge in the state of inactivity that the heat induces, starting the day with a 20-minute session of warm-up and stretching exercises; a swim in the pool can be a good idea “, as well as” a course of aquatic physiotherapy “.
Against the risk of falls, the use of the walker is recommended at times of the day when motor blocks occur, as well as the use of trekking or Nordic walking poles “which allow to increase physical capacity by about 20%. the degree of training compared to walking without aids “.
With regard to people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, neurologists highlight how confusional states and worsening of orientation as well as cognitive functions can become more frequent in the summer months: “It is important to constantly refresh the rooms and take walks at the end of the day, in the cooler hours, to promote psychophysical well-being “. (HANDLE).
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