Dementia and Wandering
Understanding, Preventing, and Responding to Wandering Risks
Supporting individuals living with dementia presents with many challenges, and one of the most critical is wandering, also known as elopement. Studies show that up to 60% of people living with dementia will wander at some point, which creates serious safety concerns. The risk escalates during colder months due to hypothermia, and the shorter daylight hours that follow Daylight Saving Time can make it harder to locate someone who has wandered.
Why Wandering Happens
The reasons why individuals with dementia wander are varied and complex. Understanding these motivations is essential for effective prevention and compassionate care:
Discomfort, Anxiety, or Feeling Unsafe: Emotional distress may prompt the person to leave their current environment in search of comfort or safety.
Disorientation in Time: Some may believe they need to fulfill past responsibilities, such as going to work or picking up children, often related to reverting to earlier life stages.
Searching for Familiarity: A desire to find a familiar person, place, or routine can drive the urge to wander.
Unfamiliar or Overstimulating Environment: New surroundings or too much stimulation may trigger restlessness or confusion.
Curiosity or Restlessness: Some individuals may wander simply out of a need to explore or move around.
Confusion from Illness: Dementia itself, or an underlying condition such as infection, can exacerbate confusion and wandering.
How to Help Prevent or Respond to Wandering
Create a Safe and Supportive Environment
Use familiar and comforting items throughout the home to help reduce anxiety and provide reassurance.
Reminiscence therapy, such as looking at old photos or listening to familiar music, can help redirect and calm the person.
Ensure adequate indoor lighting to minimize shadows, which may cause fear or confusion.
Close blinds and curtains in the evening to limit reflections and visual misperceptions.
Remove access to Transportation: Vehicles such as cars, lawnmowers, or ATVs can allow the person to travel farther if they leave home, increasing the risk and radius of wandering.
2. Use Safety and Alert Systems
Install door alarms, motion sensors, or cameras to notify caregivers if someone tries to leave the home unexpectedly.
Consider tracking devices, such as Apple Air Tags, GPS-enabled bracelets, or trackers attached to clothing, key rings, or shoes, for added security.
If the individual carries a smartphone, use tracking apps like Life360 or Find My Phone for real-time location monitoring.
Consider community safety programs like Project Lifesaver, which offer tracking technology and direct connections to local emergency responders.
3. Partner with Local Resources
Inform your local police department that someone in your household is living with dementia and may be at risk of wandering.
Provide authorities with a recent photo and identifying information to facilitate a rapid response in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Wandering is a common and serious concern for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. By understanding its underlying causes and taking proactive steps—such as adapting the environment, using supportive technologies, and fostering community partnerships, families and care teams can enhance safety and provide reassurance. With thoughtful planning and collaboration, it is possible to support individuals with dementia in living with greater dignity, independence, and peace of mind.
Susan Raychard, MOTR/L, CDP
Susan Raychard, LLC | (207) 298-0071 | www.SusanRaychard-LLC.com
