Exposure to extreme heat and cold is associated with an increased risk of emergency department visits among people living with dementia, according to preliminary research presented at the European Academy of Neurology Congress 2026 on June 29. The findings suggest that environmental factors can have measurable effects on the health of individuals with neurological disorders.
Researchers from the IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Italy, analyzed emergency department visits recorded between 2015 and 2024 among 13,680 people with dementia and 2,755 people with Parkinson's disease in Bologna. The aim was to determine whether exposure to extreme temperatures correlated with a higher risk of hospital attendance.
The analysis found that both extreme heat (approximately 29.7°C) and extreme cold (approximately 1.5°C) were associated with increased emergency visits among people with dementia. Exposure to extreme heat led to an 11% increase in such visits within three days following exposure, while exposure to extreme cold resulted in a delayed increase in risk—reaching a peak of 14% around ten days after exposure. The strongest effect from heat was seen among those aged 70–90 years, who experienced a 19% rise in risk within three days after high temperature events.
In contrast, no clear evidence was found that temperature extremes affected emergency visit rates for those living with Parkinson's disease. Researchers observed a possible trend related to heat but said further investigation is needed due to the smaller sample size for this group and potentially different relevant temperature thresholds.
Dr. Vignatelli said, "The difference in risk trends following exposure to extreme temperatures between dementia and Parkinson's disease is only partly surprising, as it underscores the fact that these two conditions are underpinned by two distinct disease processes, even though they are broadly grouped together under the umbrella of neurodegenerative diseases." He also noted several possible mechanisms explaining why people with dementia may be particularly vulnerable: "In degenerative diseases, we can hypothesise two mechanisms of deterioration linked to exposure to extreme temperatures... physiological stress induced in a frail body" as well as acceleration of neurodegenerative processes by environmental extremes.
The researchers say their findings highlight the need for measures protecting vulnerable populations during periods of severe weather. Dr. Vignatelli stated, "For both hot and cold periods, local health authorities should promote social and urban planning solutions aimed at reducing social isolation and establishing easily accessible climate shelters... During hot weather healthcare professionals should take proactive measures... while telemedicine could be a useful tool for providing flexible clinical care during both hot and cold weather."
