Preventing Wandering and Elopement
By Fiona Sembiring | December 15, 2023
Wandering is the word used when an individual with dementia strays into an unsafe place. This can be with or without a purpose. For example, the person might be trying to accomplish a goal like searching for someone or something, but it could also be because the person doesn’t remember what they were trying to accomplish in the first place. People with dementia might wander out of anxiety, frustration, boredom, or even an unmet need, such as inactivity, fatigue, pain, hunger, thirst, or constipation. If the individual leaves and does not return it is then considered elopement.
What can I do to prevent wandering and elopement?
To prevent wandering and elopment, you can first ensure that all of your loved one’s needs are addressed (i.e., inactivity, fatigue, pain, hunger, thirst, constipation, etc.). If your loved one wanders at the same time every day, you can also plan in advance and provide a distraction during that time. For example, the use of a rocking chair or structured exercise could help get rid of excess energy. Likewise, closing the blinds and turning on lights long before sunset could alleviate any anxiety around sundown.
It is important to understand why your loved one feels the need to wander. They may be continuing a habit from the past, or searching for a life they used to have, or trying to find a sense of purpose.
Prevention Tips
Keep shoes and coats out of sight
Post labels and signs (i.e., stop sign on the door)
Lock outside doors and windows as needed
Register with emergency response services (i.e., MedicAlert, Life Alert)
Preventative Devices
Motion detectors or sensors
Pressure-sensing mats and pads
Bed shakers
Other wander alarms
Other types of security systems
GPS trackers (i.e., device, watch, necklace, shoe/shoe inserts)
Create a Step-by-Step Action Plan
Keep a recent photo or physical description
Take note of your loved one’s clothes every day
Designate an immediate search party (i.e., neighbors, nearby friends and families)
Search Tips
Alert the authorities as soon as possible (no more than 10 minutes)
Wanderers often follow their dominant hand (i.e., right hand = right turns)
Wanderers will not respond to people shouting their name or crying for help
Wanderers are often found within 2 miles of home
Dementia is often confused for a disease, but it is actually a term used for the collection of abnormal symptoms that affect a person’s thinking, functioning, and interaction with others. People with dementia may be irritated or annoyed by new things, can have trouble focusing, have trouble remembering, and have difficulty using proper judgment. Although dementia is not a disease, dementia can be brought on by a disease or medical condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, multiple strokes, traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The behaviors brought on by dementia, such as wandering and elopement, can be hard to manage for many seniors and their family. Family members can take action by educating themselves on how to better take care of their loved ones and recognizing how to prevent wandering and elopement.
At Samaritan Senior Care, we believe in providing transparent and personalized support to help you navigate the difficulties of dementia. Our dedicated team is committed to assisting you every step of the way, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the necessary standard and quality of care involved.
For more information and personalized guidance on in-home care services, reach out to Samaritan Senior Care today. Our experts are here to address your concerns and provide you with the necessary information to make well-informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of your loved ones.
All content and information on our website is created for informational purposes only. The information presented does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult an appropriate professional for advice related to your specific situation.
