Key Takeaways
- Wandering is common: Up to 60% of people with dementia will wander at least once, making it a significant safety concern for caregivers.
- Know the signs: Early warning signs include returning late from regular walks, getting lost in familiar places, and expressing a desire to 'go home' even when they are home.
- Understand the causes: Wandering can be triggered by confusion, memory loss, unmet needs (like hunger or thirst), stress, or simply continuing a past routine.
- Prevention is key: Creating a safe environment, establishing routines, and using tracking devices can help prevent wandering incidents.
- Expert help is available: If you are concerned about a loved one's safety, professional in-home care can provide supervision and support. Gallagher Home Care offers specialized senior care services in Pennsylvania. Schedule a free in-home assessment today.
Understanding Wandering and Its Triggers
For caregivers, ensuring the safety of a senior loved one is a top priority. When a senior lives with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, that responsibility grows. One of the most common and concerning behaviors associated with dementia is wandering. The Alzheimer's Association reports that six in ten people with dementia will wander, often becoming disoriented and unable to find their way back.
Wandering isn’t just aimless walking; it's often a purposeful action driven by confusion, memory loss, or a need the person is trying to fulfill. A senior might be looking for a person from their past, trying to go to a previous job, or simply trying to find the bathroom in a home that suddenly feels unfamiliar. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward managing the behavior and keeping your loved one safe. Recognizing the early warning signs can help you take proactive measures before a dangerous situation occurs.
6 Warning Signs of Wandering to Watch For
Identifying wandering behavior early allows you to implement safety strategies. If you notice any of the following signs in your loved one, it may be time to address the risk of wandering.
1. Taking longer to return from regular outings
A common early sign is when a routine walk or a quick trip to the corner store starts taking much longer than usual. Your loved one might have taken a wrong turn or become momentarily confused about their route. While they may return home safely, this increased duration is a red flag that their sense of direction is beginning to fade.
2. Getting lost in familiar places
Has your loved one ever seemed lost or confused in their own home, yard, or neighborhood? Difficulty navigating familiar environments is a significant indicator of cognitive decline. They might struggle to find the kitchen or forget which way to turn on a street they’ve lived on for years. This disorientation can be frightening for them and is a clear warning sign for caregivers.
3. Talking about 'going home' when they are already home
A person with dementia may not recognize their current residence as 'home.' They might repeatedly say, 'I want to go home,' referring to a childhood house or a previous residence. This desire can prompt them to leave the house in search of that familiar place, putting them at risk.
4. Becoming restless or pacing
Increased restlessness, agitation, or pacing can be a precursor to wandering. This behavior may indicate an unmet need, such as hunger, thirst, a need to use the restroom, or boredom. It can also be a sign of stress or anxiety. A senior who is constantly pacing or seems unable to settle down may be on the verge of leaving the house to relieve their discomfort.
5. Forgetting how to get to familiar locations
Does your loved one suddenly forget how to get to the grocery store, a friend's house, or the local community center they visit often? This type of memory lapse is more than a simple moment of forgetfulness; it points to a deeper issue with spatial awareness and memory that directly increases their risk of getting lost if they are out alone.
6. Trying to fulfill a past duty or routine
Seniors with dementia often revert to past roles and routines. For example, a retired teacher might feel they need to get to school to teach a class, or a former office worker may try to leave for 'work' every morning. This behavior is driven by long-term memory and can lead them to wander as they attempt to carry out these old responsibilities.
Get Expert Support for Your Loved One in Pennsylvania
Recognizing these warning signs is the first step, but managing them requires a comprehensive plan and dedicated support. Gallagher Home Care provides specialized care to keep your loved one safe and comfortable.
Schedule an appointment for our compassionate senior care services. Gallagher Home Care is here to help you navigate the challenges of caregiving with confidence and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my elderly parent wanders?
If your parent wanders and gets lost, call 911 immediately. Provide the police with a recent photo, a description of what they were wearing, and any relevant medical information. It's helpful to have an emergency plan ready in advance, including a list of places they might try to go.
How can I make my home safer to prevent wandering?
You can install alarms on doors and windows, use child-proof doorknob covers, and place locks in less obvious positions (either very high or very low). Disguising doors with curtains or paint can also help. Reducing clutter and ensuring the home is well-lit can minimize confusion that might trigger wandering.
Are there devices to track a person who wanders?
Yes, GPS tracking devices are available as watches, shoe insoles, or pendants. These devices can alert you if your loved one leaves a designated 'safe zone' and can help you locate them quickly. Many local Alzheimer's Association chapters offer resources on these technologies.
