Dementia Wandering: A Guide to Prevention & Management
- May 19, 2024
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Senior wandering prevention is a crucial aspect of caring for individuals with dementia. This behavior can be a source of significant anxiety for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. According to a study by the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander at some point [Source: Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/deambulacion]. While even the most diligent caregivers may experience moments of panic when their loved ones go missing, there are proactive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of senior wandering and manage its occurrence effectively.
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Understanding Dementia Wandering:
Wandering in dementia is often caused by underlying factors such as:
- Memory loss: Individuals with dementia may forget familiar places or how to get back home, leading them to wander.
- Anxiety and restlessness: Feeling overwhelmed or anxious in unfamiliar or crowded environments can prompt wandering as a way to escape discomfort.
- Seeking familiar routines: Individuals may wander in search of places or activities they associate with their past, such as their former workplace or a favourite childhood haunt.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections or pain, can contribute to wandering behaviours.
Preventing Dementia Wandering:
While there’s no foolproof way to eliminate getting lost entirely, several strategies can help reduce its occurrence:
- Establish a routine: Maintaining a consistent daily schedule provides a sense of structure and predictability, reducing the likelihood of disorientation and wandering.
- Create a safe home environment: Minimize trip hazards, install grab bars, and ensure adequate lighting to prevent falls and injuries.
- Encourage physical activity: Regular exercise helps manage anxiety, improves sleep, and promotes overall well-being, potentially reducing wandering tendencies.
- Engage in stimulating activities: Keep the person mentally and physically engaged with activities they enjoy, such as puzzles, gardening, or social interactions.
- Limit access to exits: Install childproof locks or safety gates on doors and windows to restrict unsupervised access to the outside.
Managing Dementia Wandering Events:
If wandering does occur, it’s crucial to remain calm and follow these steps:
- Alert authorities immediately: Contact your local police department or emergency services and provide a detailed description of the person, including their name, age, and appearance.
- Search the surrounding area: Check familiar places the person frequents, such as their neighbourhood, former workplace, or favourite spots.
- Enlist community support: Inform neighbours, friends, and local businesses about the person’s wandering tendency and ask for their assistance in locating them.
- Utilize tracking devices: Consider using GPS trackers or wearable devices to monitor the person’s location and facilitate quick recovery.
Don’t face dementia wandering alone! Genacare Family Support offers in-home care, companionship, and dementia care resources to assist families. Connect with our team today: https://genacarefamilysupport.com/contact-us/ to develop a personalized plan for managing wandering behaviors and ensuring your loved one’s safety and well-being.
GenaCare Family Support is here for you.
We offer a variety of resources and services, including in-home care, companionship, and resource connections to assist individuals with dementia and their families. We can help you navigate the journey and provide a sense of comfort and care.
Learn more about our dementia care services and how we can support you on this journey: Link to GenaCare Dementia Care Services: genacarefamilysupport.com/services/.
Contact ToniContact GaryAdditional Resources:
- Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/
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