Wandering, a common behavior among seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, can be frightening for caregivers. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, up to 6 out of 10 people with dementia will wander at some point in their lives.
Wanderers who are not found within 24 hours can wind up in serious physical and psychological trouble. Some even die from exposure or an accident.
The first step to preventing elderly wandering is making sure they’re not able to get out of the home or vehicle without assistance. Consider installing security alarms or safety technology such as door, driveway and bed sensors that alert you if your loved one walks away.
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Mark non-exit interior doors with pictures or signs to make it easier for your loved one to locate the bathroom, bedroom or kitchen. Nightlights can be useful to illuminate these areas at night, too.
Caregivers can help their older loved one plan engaging activities to distract them from wandering, too. Identify the times of day when your aging relative is most likely to wander and engage them in meaningful activities then.
https://personalmedicalalarms.com.au/gps-locator/ Avoid distractions that could trigger a senior to leave the home, such as keys or a purse. Keep "trigger items" out of sight, says Denny.
Ensure your aging relative has all of their basic needs met, including toileting and nutrition. Also, limit fluids during the hours before bedtime to prevent bathroom trips while sleeping.
If your aging relative is prone to wandering, you can use wearable trackers that monitor their movement and provide you with location data. These devices are designed to be worn on the person’s wrist or ankle and are now available in a variety of styles.
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