It is common for a person with dementia to wander and become lost; many do so repeatedly. In fact, more than 60 percent of individuals with dementia will wander. If not found within 24 hours, up to half will suffer serious injury or death.
Be aware of the risk factors for wandering, and enroll in MedicAlert® + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return®, a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals with Alzheimer’s who wander or who have a medical emergency.
Signs of wandering behavior
A person may be at risk for wandering if he or she:
- Returns from a regular walk or drive later than usual
- Tries to fulfill former obligations, such as going to work
- Tries or wants to "go home," even when at home
- Is restless, paces or makes repetitive movements
- Has a hard time locating familiar places like the bathroom, bedroom or dining room
- Acts as if doing a hobby or chore, but nothing gets done (moves around pots and dirt without actually planting anything)
- Acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas, such as shopping malls or restaurants
Tips to reduce wandering
- Place deadbolts either high or low on exterior doors.
- Encourage movement and exercise to reduce anxiety, agitation and restlessness.
- Ensure all basic needs are met (toileting, nutrition, thirst).
- Involve the person in daily activities, such as folding laundry or preparing dinner.
- Reassure the person if he or she feels lost, abandoned or disoriented.
- Control access to car keys (a person with dementia may not just wander by foot).
- Avoid busy places that are confusing and can cause disorientation, such as shopping malls.
- Do not leave someone with dementia unsupervised in new surroundings.
