She refuses to share alarm codes with the aide and insists on windows and doors locked with the alarm on which makes it uncomfortable for the aide.
I was there today and saw this first hand.
Also its summer and she insists on putting the heat on. Wants it 74 even though outside is 74. Goes back to refusing to let windows stay open.
While we waited to get her in care (waiting out the pandemic) we had ductless AC installed, only WE kept the remote controls. Oddly, she didn’t mention that the temp was lower and dressed the same.
Yes, Mom had on long pants, knee socks/shoes, thermo undershirt, blouse, and sweater, plus a scarf around her neck. And there was Dad, in his summer shorts and sandals, and nothing else. He was a Saint putting up with Mom :) And, no, Mom didn't have dementia, it is just some elders feel so very cold.
Sadly paranoia/fear is very common with folks suffering with dementia, so this shouldn't surprise you or her aides, and often can be treated with the proper medications.
Your mom is no longer safe to live on her own and now either requires full-time help, or placement in the appropriate facility.
Best wishes in getting her care figured out, so she and everyone else will be safe.
If I say something like mom you need more fresh air going through the house, she will leave a door a sliver open, with the screen door shut with only glass in it. So I gave that up a long time ago
I am able on humid days, so get her to understand that the ACs have to be on low , just to keep out the humidity. That really helps .
I've read another reason is that the part of the brain that controls the heat , is dieing. I'm not sure but it sounds very likely to be true
Seniors often feel cold for a variety of reasons, some of which have to do with body fat reserves, some because they're not moving around generating heat, and some due to health/medical issues.
My MIL had the heat set to 80º in the summer...ugh!!