Dementia is a term used for disorders that affect one’s cognitive abilities and memory. It is commonly found in older adults, with estimates suggesting as many as 7% of those above 60 years have dementia. Those afflicted with dementia exhibit symptoms such as memory loss, a shift in personality, increased irritability, and depression. Dementia can also cause your loved ones to wander away and walk aimlessly. This is incredibly dangerous as they might end up missing or get into accidents. We understand the difficulty in caring for loved ones with dementia, this is why we have created a guide to help your loved ones feel safe and to prevent them from wandering and getting lost.
Identify the Trigger
There are several triggers that might cause those with dementia to wander. One is that they are expressing a basic need like hunger, thirst, or a need to use the bathroom. Take note of the time that they usually show these needs and be prepared to answer them when they crop up like providing a snack or accompanying them to the bathroom. Another is the indication that your loved one is curious, bored, or listless. Keep them occupied with simple yet meaningful tasks in such cases. This can come in the form of chatting, simple puzzles, or repetitive activities like crocheting. This will ensure that they are engaged and will not wander.
Install Alarms and Locks
Make it difficult for your loved one to get outside the house while wandering. Install door and window locks to make it difficult for those with dementia to open them. Do take note that these locks should still be easy for caregivers to unlock in case of an emergency. Alarms are also great for alerting you if a door or window has been opened without your knowledge. Alarms can also come in the form of alarm mats to be placed next to the bed and alert you if your loved one has gotten up in the middle of the night. Do choose silent alarms that alert you through other ways like mobile notifications as loud noises can startle your loved one and cause them to be angry or irritated.
Allow Wandering in Secured Areas
Wandering is not preventable once it surfaces as a symptom. Your loved ones would naturally want to wander no matter what. As such, you can let them wander in secured areas while supervising them. Use areas in your home like hallways or a fenced yard for them to wander around in. This is a natural and safe way for them to explore their surroundings and be familiar with them. Letting them explore will lessen confusion and reduce their tendency to want to wander.
Camouflage Exits
Discourage your loved ones from opening doors that lead to the outside by camouflaging them or putting up warning signs. This works as they would not be able to find the door and often follow signs that tell them what to do. Hang a curtain over the door or disguise the door handle so that your loved one would not be able to identify it as a door to open. Put up large signs that say “Do not enter” or “stop” and they will be discouraged from going further.
