One of the many concerns caregivers have about their loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease, or other dementias, is wandering. Will they wander? How can I keep them safe? What will I do if they do wander? It’s good to think ahead and stay on top of the possibility.
When you think of wandering, you probably typically think of the scenario of an Alzheimer’s patient walking out of their home and becoming lost, but wandering can also occur inside the home or by car.
When a person with dementia is aimlessly walking around their home, it could be for several reasons. They may be looking for a misplaced item or a certain person. They might be searching for the bathroom or another particular room in the house. They may be trying to leave a stressful situation, or loud noise. Or maybe they are just bored.
This kind of wandering inside the home isn’t usually harmful. However, you should be aware of tripping and fall hazards, especially if your loved one wanders the house at night. Night lights, gates at stairwells, and removing throw rugs can prevent accidental falls.
If your loved one leaves the home without your knowledge, it can be very scary. All the reasons I listed above for why a person might wander inside their home applies here as well. Another added reason may be that the person is trying to follow an established routine, like leaving for work. The wandering itself may not be harmful, but the prospect of your loved one becoming lost is what makes this behavior so alarming.
There are several approaches you can take to prevent wandering. If it seems to be occurring at a similar time each day, try to engage your loved one at that time with stimulating activities. You may want to purchase alarms or warning bells for doors that lead outside. Childproof doorknob covers might work, or sliding bolts installed at a height that your loved one wouldn’t notice. There are alarm mats that you can place at your loved one’s bedside, in front of his or her favorite chair, or at a doorway.
Having your loved one wear a GPS device can give you some peace of mind should they wander. Check with your local law enforcement agency about a tracking anklet. Use a tracking app if your loved one carries a smart phone. I’ve even seen shoes with a tracking device embedded in the soles!
The online site, The Alzheimer’s Store, has a variety of products for caregivers and their loved ones with dementia. Here is a link to their page of devices for prevention and detection of wandering: https://www.alzstore.com/alzheimers-dementia-wandering-s/1828.htm
I also recommend contacting your local police department and neighbors, before any wandering, to alert them of the diagnosis. Consider giving a photo of your loved one to the police to keep on hand. I’ve also heard of a caregiver who photographs her husband every morning to have a record on her phone of what he is wearing in case he wanders.
Wandering while driving is a whole other issue! GPS in the car would be essential, and discussions about no longer driving should probably be addressed at this point.
If your loved one does wander away from home, and you cannot locate him or her quickly, of course it is essential that you contact local authorities.
Here is a video of a story about a time Harvey wandered
4 Responses
My husband is not a wanderer, but I learned about a year ago t couldn’t leave him alone at home anymore. I had a Sunday afternoon meeting at church and up until then, I had been comfortable leaving him for a couple of hours. About half way through the meeting, he showed up hot, sweaty and confused. He had walked about a mile uphill in 100° heat (also has a heart condigion). Worse than that, he had gotten in the car when a stranger offered him a ride. Thankfully it was someone who could tell he needed help. My husband knew where I was and He said he thought I needed him.
I can also relate to the part about him looking for something. He spends hours looking for something, but cannot tell me what he is looking for. He goes through the house opening drawers, closets, cabinets, even the refrigerator and trash canns.
Thank you for your blog. It means a lot to me.
Barbara, I’m so glad you find my blog helpful. I always think it’s good to know you are not the only one experiencing certain things. Make you feel less alone. Or crazy!
Im so glad your husband was OK!
What a wonderful narration of Harvey’s adventures. These stories are so helpful. I don’t know anyone with this disease, but if I ever do I will share your wisdom with their caregiver.
The best in everything you do.
With blessings
Jane Mckenzie
Thank you Jane! Yes, if we are all better informed, we can make a difference in the lives of people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.