Support Newsletter July 21, 2026
Thank you for all your hard work again today. The intense heat continues, so I have gathered some tips on what to be careful about in caregiving settings and what to do when you feel like something is off. I hope this helps lighten your burden a little after reading it.
Care and Interaction
Air Conditioning to Save Lives [Dementia Matters Communication No. 26]
2026-07-20 14:30 JST / Nishinippon Shimbun me
What is the news? People with dementia may have difficulty sensing heat and often dislike air conditioning, so families are urged to manage room temperatures thoroughly and use air conditioning without worrying about saving electricity. In home medical care, air conditioning is considered an "essential item for saving lives."
Support Point: If you avoid using air conditioning because it is "a waste," you may end up with high medical costs due to heatstroke. Use a room thermometer as a guide—if it exceeds 30 degrees Celsius, do not hesitate to turn on the air conditioning.
What you can do: If they dislike the air conditioning, try various tricks such as pretending you are turning it on because you are too hot, using it in combination with an electric fan, or setting the temperature to 28 degrees and adjusting the airflow direction.
Medications that require caution—constipation medicine and sleeping pills can also lower cognitive function
2026-07-21 11:00 JST / Yahoo! News
What is the news? If magnesium levels in the blood become too high due to ingredients in constipation medicine, cognitive function can decline. Additionally, sleeping pills or anti-allergy medications can sometimes cause "delirium" (a state of sudden confusion and restlessness).
Support Point: If you feel that your family member's condition has changed suddenly, it might be the effect of their medication. Simply having your family doctor review all the medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, can sometimes lead to improvement.
What you can do: Bring their medication notebook and ask their family doctor or pharmacist, "They have been acting strange lately; could it be the effect of their medication?"
Dementia-related missing persons: High level of 17,000 per year; GPS and community monitoring are important
2026-07-21 06:00 JST / nippon.com
What is the news? In 2025, the number of missing persons due to dementia was 17,345, which, while a decrease for the second consecutive year, remains at a high level. 95% of people are found within three days of being reported missing. Data also shows that 99% of the 139 people who were carrying GPS devices were found within three days.
Support Point: "What if" moments can happen to anyone. First, take comfort in the fact that most people are found quickly. Utilizing GPS devices or simply telling your neighbors, "Please let me know if you see them," can expand the circle of support.
What you can do: Consult your local Community Comprehensive Support Center or care manager about the rental of GPS devices or subsidies for costs. Depending on the municipality, some offer monitoring services for free.
Family and Individuals
My father, diagnosed with terminal cancer, said, "Thank you, Hidemi-kun"—a miraculous moment between a father with dementia and his son
2026-07-21 07:20 JST / Bunshun Online
What's the news? Non-fiction writer Hidemi Takahashi's father had advanced dementia and could no longer recognize his son's face. However, while on his deathbed with terminal cancer, his father suddenly said to his son, "Thank you, Hidemi-kun." This is an episode that teaches us that even as dementia progresses, feelings of gratitude remain deep within the heart.
Support Point: When days go by without a response, you may feel lonely, wondering if your words are getting through. But this story teaches us that our words reach the other person's heart more than we realize. Please continue to speak to them as you always do today. Every single word you say is definitely reaching them.
Word of the Day
Delirium A state where one suddenly becomes confused, unable to recognize people or places around them, or becomes restless and agitated. It can be caused by the effects of medication or changes in physical condition, and it is often easy to improve with appropriate care. It is similar to symptoms of dementia, but because the cause is different, it is important to consult a doctor.
Thank you for your hard work today as well. It is okay not to carry everything on your own. Rest when you can, rely on those you can, and let's keep going together.