Elderly dementia patients in South Korea manage a collective $110.5 billion in assets, according to government figures.
A senior strolls down a hospital corridor in Eunpyeong District, Seoul, on April 4, 2024. [YONHAP]
Dementia Patients in South Korea Struggle in Extreme Weather
Dementia patients grapple with various challenges when South Korea experiences extreme weather, as intense weather events like typhoons and heatwaves can adversely affect their health and well-being.
Health Hazards
- Respiratory Distress: High levels of particulate matter (PM10) due to typhoons can exacerbate respiratory conditions prevalent among older adults, causing discomfort.
- Emotional Turmoil: Extreme weather can amplify stress and anxiety in dementia patients, leading to additional complications in their care.
Logistical Hurdles
- Service Access: Power outages and transportation disruptions can make it difficult for caregivers to reach dementia patients and provide essential services, potentially worsening their conditions.
Economic Vulnerability
Older dementia patients are often targets of financial exploitation, and extreme weather can heighten this risk as caregivers may need to make financial decisions on their behalf during times of crisis.
Mitigation Strategies
Building Social and Health Support Systems
- Establishing community-based networks and healthcare services can ensure that dementia patients have access to emergency medical care and safe living conditions.
Financial Protection and Management
- Ensuring financial safeguards against exploitation and providing guidance for asset management can protect dementia patients from financial abuse during emergencies.
Public Awareness and Education
- Educating the public on the needs of dementia patients during extreme weather can create a more supportive environment for them and their caregivers.
As South Korea's elderly population continues to grow, the impact of extreme weather on dementia patients is set to become more pronounced, necessitating comprehensive strategies to bolster resilience and support systems.
- The extreme weather events in South Korea, such as typhoons and heatwaves, pose a risk to dementia patients' health and wellness, intensifying their respiratory distress due to increased particulate matter (PM10) levels.
- Amidst these weather events, the emotional welfare of dementia patients can also be affected, as mental health issues like stress and anxiety can be exacerbated, leading to further complications.
- In addition, logistical challenges, such as service access issues due to power outages and transportation disruptions, could exacerbate the conditions of dementia patients, making it harder for caregivers to provide essential services.
- As older dementia patients often face financial exploitation, South Korea's government should establish financial safeguards and provide asset management guidance to protect them from financial abuse during emergencies, ensuring their mental and physical well-being.
