Immediate Actions: The First Few Minutes
When you notice a person with dementia starting to wander or seem restless, your immediate response is critical. The right approach can prevent a dangerous situation from escalating.
1. Stay calm and approach from the front
Your demeanor will significantly impact the person with dementia. Approaching them calmly and from the front, so they can see you clearly, reduces the likelihood of startling them. Your calm energy can help de-escalate their agitation or anxiety, which are often triggers for wandering.
2. Validate their feelings, don’t correct them
People with dementia often wander because they are trying to fulfill a past routine or are looking for something or someone, such as “going to work” or “going home”. Never correct them by saying, “You live here now.” Instead, validate their feelings. You can say something like, “It sounds like you want to go home. Tell me more about that.” This shows you’re listening and helps build trust.
3. Redirect their attention gently
Once you’ve made a connection, redirect their focus to a different activity or a comfortable space. Try offering a warm beverage, a favorite snack, or engaging them with a repetitive task they enjoy, like folding laundry. A simple change of scenery, such as sitting down together in a comfortable chair, can also work wonders.
Long-Term Strategies to Prevent Wandering
Immediate actions are for crisis management, but prevention is the best long-term strategy for dealing with dementia-related wandering. Proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk and frequency of these events.
1. Create a safe and secure home environment
Securing your home is a primary defense against wandering. Install locks on exterior doors, placing them either high up or low down, out of the person's normal line of sight. For visual cues, some caregivers use camouflage techniques, such as painting doors the same color as the walls or hanging removable curtains. You can also use signs that say “Stop” or “Do Not Enter”.
2. Use technology and monitoring devices
Modern technology offers many tools to help caregivers. GPS trackers are available as watches, pendants, or clip-on devices that can help locate a person quickly. Additionally, door and window alarms or pressure-sensitive mats can alert you when a person is attempting to exit a room or the house. These devices provide an extra layer of security without feeling restrictive.
3. Establish consistent daily routines
Structure and routine provide a sense of security and familiarity, reducing the anxiety that can trigger wandering. Plan engaging activities, meals, and exercise at consistent times each day. If you notice wandering tends to happen at certain times, like during “sundowning” in the evening, schedule calming activities during that period.
4. Meet basic needs and reduce discomfort
Sometimes wandering is a symptom of an unmet need. The person might be hungry, thirsty, or need to use the restroom. Always check on these basic needs. You should also be aware of potential discomfort from pain, a fever, or ill-fitting clothing. Reducing overstimulation, such as loud noises or crowded spaces, can also help minimize agitation.
5. Involve neighbors and authorities in your plan
Your support network is a valuable asset. Inform your neighbors about your loved one’s condition and their tendency to wander. Provide them with your contact information and a recent photo. Additionally, many local police departments and wandering response services have registries for people with dementia. The MedicAlert and Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return program is a well-known service that offers identification products and a 24/7 emergency hotline.
Comparison of Immediate and Long-Term Strategies
| Feature | Immediate Response | Long-Term Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | De-escalate and ensure immediate safety | Reduce risk and address root causes |
| Timeframe | Minutes | Ongoing |
| Primary Approach | Calm redirection and validation | Environmental modification and routine |
| Key Tactics | Gentle approach, validation, redirection | Secure locks, alarms, GPS tracking |
| Environmental Control | Minimal (adjusting current situation) | Comprehensive (locks, signs, camouflage) |
| Stakeholders | Caregiver, individual with dementia | Caregiver, family, neighbors, authorities, programs |
| Technology Usage | GPS monitoring (if pre-arranged) | Door alarms, pressure mats, GPS tracking |
When to Seek Help from an Expert
If wandering becomes a persistent issue despite your best efforts, or if you feel overwhelmed, it may be time to consult a professional. A doctor can review medications, as some drugs can increase confusion or restlessness. A qualified dementia care professional or therapist can also offer personalized strategies and support to help manage the behavior. For some, transitioning to a dedicated memory care community provides a safer, more structured environment with 24/7 supervision designed to prevent wandering.
Conclusion
Knowing the first step to take when a person with dementia begins to wander—a calm, gentle redirection—is vital for their immediate safety. However, this is just one piece of a larger strategy. A comprehensive approach involves preventative measures, a secure environment, and a robust emergency plan. By combining these steps, caregivers can provide a safer, more supportive environment, reducing risk and stress for everyone involved.
For more resources and guidance, visit the official website for the Alzheimer's Association: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/safety/wandering.
