How To Lower The Chances Of Wandering

Understanding and Addressing Wandering in Dementia Patients

Wandering is a common concern for individuals with dementia, stemming from disorientation and confusion. While it cannot always be prevented, understanding the underlying reasons and implementing strategies can help mitigate the risks.

Causes of Wandering

• Confusion and Disorientation: Individuals may wander due to confusion about their surroundings or a desire to find their "home."
• Escape from Perceived Threats: Fear, agitation, or delusions can prompt wandering as a response to perceived threats.
• Boredom and Restlessness: Lack of stimulation or purposeful activities can lead to wandering as a way to alleviate boredom.
• Unmet Needs: Hunger, thirst, or the need to use the bathroom may drive individuals to wander in search of fulfillment.

Strategies to Reduce Wandering

• Establish Routines: Create a structured daily plan to provide predictability and stability.
• Observe Patterns: Plan activities during times when wandering is more likely to occur.
• Reassure and Comfort: Offer reassurance and validate feelings of safety when your loved one feels lost.
• Address Basic Needs: Ensure your loved one's needs for food, water, and bathroom breaks are met.
• Engage in Purposeful Activities: Provide meaningful tasks or chores to keep the mind occupied.
• Install Safety Devices: Use alarms, locks, and GPS devices to monitor exits and entries.
• Understand Past Routines: Recognize if your loved one is trying to fulfill past obligations or routines.
• Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Discuss medication management and other medical factors with a doctor.
• Create a Safe Environment: Remove obstacles and ensure clear pathways to minimize hazards.
• Notify Neighbors and Community Members: Inform others about your loved one's condition to enlist support.
• Redirect Agitation: Offer alternative activities or topics of conversation to redirect wandering behavior.

Communication Approach

• Empathy and Understanding: Put yourself in their shoes and validate their feelings rather than responding with distress.
• Avoid Negative Commands: Instead of saying "Don't go outside," focus on reassuring and redirecting positively.
• Remain Calm: Keep a composed demeanor to help de-escalate situations and provide comfort.

Putting yourself in the shoes of your loved one with dementia will help you better understand his or her need to wander and help you put the appropriate measures in place. It is important to avoid responding with distress by telling him/her what you DON’T want them to do. If you say, “Don’t go outside,” you are prompting the individual to think about outside and it will be difficult to reverse that train of thought. Remain calm and validate his/her feelings. 

If wandering has become an issue, it may be time to consult with a professional. 

Seeking support?

Our team of Certified Senior Advisors® and Certified Dementia Practitioners® has successfully assisted hundreds of families. We offer a single point of contact for all services you or your loved one might need when transitioning from longtime homes. We ensure a stress-free move that allows you to focus on the transition rather than the logistics.

Click here to start the conversation!

You can also call us directly at 617.227.1600 or email: [email protected]