How to Prevent Wandering in Dementia

Wandering is a common and often distressing behaviour in people with dementia. It can be worrying for both the person experiencing it and their caregivers, as it may lead to safety concerns and confusion. Often, wandering is driven by a variety of factors, such as restlessness, confusion or the need to find familiar places.

As a caregiver, it can be challenging to know how best to support a loved one who wanders while ensuring their safety and well-being. However, there are several strategies and practical solutions to reduce wandering and make the environment safer, all while maintaining the person’s dignity and independence.

This guide explores the reasons behind wandering and offers tips to prevent it and create a secure environment for your loved one with dementia.

Why people with dementia wander

Some common reasons why people with dementia may wander include:

• Confusion or disorientation: People with dementia may not recognise familiar surroundings or lose track of time, leading them to wander in search of something or someone they feel is missing.
• Restlessness or anxiety: Wandering may be a way to cope with feelings of restlessness, anxiety or discomfort. The person might feel agitated or unsettled and may walk around to alleviate these feelings.
• Seeking familiar places: Many people with dementia may wander in search of familiar environments, often looking for their childhood home or a long lost relative, as their memory of the present becomes blurred.
• Boredom: Without enough stimulating activities or engagement, a person with dementia may wander simply because they are looking for something to do.
• Physical needs: Sometimes wandering can be driven by basic needs like hunger, thirst or the need to go to the bathroom, especially if the person can’t communicate these needs effectively.

Understanding triggers and patterns

Identifying the triggers and patterns of wandering is key to supporting your loved ones. By observing when and why the person with dementia wanders, caregivers can better understand the underlying causes and work to address them. Tracking wandering patterns for a few weeks can provide valuable insight into the triggers that lead to wandering, such as:

• Time of day: Some people with dementia may wander more frequently at specific times, such as in the evening (a phenomenon known as “sundowning“), or early in the morning when they are more confused or disoriented.
• Emotional triggers: Anxiety, fear or frustration may prompt wandering. Pay attention to when the person seems more stressed or upset, as these feelings may drive them to walk around aimlessly.
• Environmental triggers: A change in surroundings, unfamiliar spaces or even too much noise can cause discomfort, leading to wandering. For example, an unfamiliar room or a loud TV may trigger restlessness.
• Physical needs: Sometimes, wandering is linked to basic needs that haven’t been met, such as hunger, thirst or needing the bathroom. If the person is unable to communicate these needs effectively, they may wander in search of a solution.

Encouraging safe walking and activity

Encouraging safe walking and staying active is an important part of managing wandering behaviour in people with dementia. Regular movement and physical activity can help reduce restlessness, improve mood and promote overall health.

Here are some ways to support safe walking and keep the person engaged:

Set up a routine

Establishing a consistent daily routine helps the person with dementia know what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and wandering caused by uncertainty. Include regular walking times as part of their routine to satisfy their need to move while providing structure.

Accompany them on walks

If possible, take the person on walks or outings to enjoy the outdoors in a controlled environment. Having a caregiver or family member accompany them provides reassurance and ensures safety and companionship during the walk.

Provide activities that involve movement

Encourage activities that involve walking or moving around the house, such as folding laundry, setting the table or watering plants. These tasks provide purpose and engagement, which can help divert attention from wandering and keep the person busy.

Use local resources

Look for local dementia friendly groups, services or activities that involve walking, such as walking clubs or outdoor exercise sessions. These structured activities can provide both mental and physical stimulation in a safe environment.

Create a safe outdoor space

If the person enjoys walking outside, consider creating a safe, enclosed garden or pathway with handrails, flat surfaces and points of interest. This allows them to walk freely without the risk of getting lost or encountering hazards.

Technology and support tools

Technology can play an important role in managing wandering behaviour and ensuring the safety of individuals with dementia. Here are some options to consider:

1. Tracking devices: GPS-enabled devices, such as watches or bracelets, can help caregivers track the person’s location if they wander. These devices can provide real-time updates, helping caregivers locate the person quickly if they go missing.
2. Mobile phone apps: Some mobile apps are designed specifically to help caregivers track a loved one’s movements, providing another layer of security. Ensure that the person with dementia is comfortable with the technology and understands how it works.
3. Identification tools: Make sure the person carries identification at all times, such as an ID bracelet or card with emergency contact information. This is especially useful if they wander away from home and need help from others to return safely.
4. Door alarms and sensors: Install door alarms or motion sensors that can alert caregivers if the person attempts to leave the home. These alarms can be placed on doors, windows or other entry points to make caregivers aware of any wandering behaviour.
5. Smart home devices: Smart technology like pressure pads, motion detectors and video monitors can be integrated into the home to monitor the person’s movements. These devices send alerts to caregivers when the person is moving about or approaching certain areas.

Considerations for locking doors: balancing safety and independence

Locking doors to prevent wandering may seem like a practical solution, but it comes with both benefits and risks that must be carefully considered. It is important for caregivers to think through the implications of locking doors and to consult with social services before taking such action.

Here’s an overview of the pros, cons and considerations to keep in mind:

Pros of locking doors:

• Increased safety: Locking doors can prevent the person with dementia from wandering into dangerous areas, such as busy streets or unfamiliar locations.
• Peace of mind: For caregivers, knowing that the person is confined to a safe space can reduce anxiety and help with supervision.

Cons of locking doors:

• Increased anxiety and distress: The person may feel trapped or frustrated, which can lead to agitation or confusion. This emotional strain can potentially worsen wandering behaviour.
• Risk of injury: If the person tries to force their way out of a locked area, there’s a risk of injury, especially in an emergency, such as a fire or medical issue.
• Legal and ethical concerns: Locking doors can be viewed as a form of restraint, which raises ethical and legal issues. In the UK, caregivers are required to consult social services before locking doors, as it may restrict the person’s liberty without their consent.

Importance of consulting social services

Before locking doors, it is essential to seek guidance from social services or healthcare professionals. They can help assess the situation and suggest safer alternatives, such as using alarms or motion sensors, to monitor wandering without limiting the person’s freedom.

If locking doors is deemed necessary, it’s important to discuss it with family members, caregivers and professionals to ensure the decision is in the best interest of the person with dementia and complies with their rights.

What to do if a person with dementia goes missing

If someone with dementia goes missing, it can be an extremely stressful and worrying time. It’s important to stay calm and act quickly to ensure their safe return. Here’s what you can do:

• Stay calm and act quickly: Try not to panic. Focus on locating the person safely by methodically checking familiar areas first. Keep a recent photograph of the person on hand to help police or others identify them.
• Contact the police: If you are unable to locate the person quickly, contact local authorities. Inform them of the situation and provide the person’s photograph and details. The police will be able to help with the search.
• Herbert Protocol: Consider taking part in the Herbert Protocol, a national initiative that encourages carers to fill out a form with useful details about the person with dementia. This form can be handed to the police in case the person goes missing, helping them locate the person faster.
• Stay at home: If possible, have someone remain at the person’s home while others search for them. This ensures that if the person returns, they won’t be left alone.
• Think of familiar places: The person may have gone to places they frequently visit, such as past homes, work locations or places they enjoyed. Check these spots first, as they are more likely to head to familiar, comforting places.
• Use local networks: Consider reaching out to local neighbourhood groups, social media platforms or community forums to ask if anyone has seen the person. However, be mindful of privacy and avoid sharing too many details online, especially if the person may not want their dementia status to be known by others.

Dementia care at home

At Trinity Homecare, we understand that a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming. We offer ‘Outstanding’ rated dementia care in the comfort of your own home. Studies show that 85% of people prefer to stay in their familiar surroundings, and we’re committed to making that possible.

With professional care tailored to your loved one’s needs, we help them enjoy a happy and fulfilling life while staying at home. For more details on how Trinity Homecare can support you, explore our live-in dementia care guide and discover the compassionate care your family deserves.

Talk to us today

At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home. We are here to support you with various different forms of home care.

Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free, no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.