Wandering away on accident or getting lost is a serious issue for people who have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. This can cause great worry for their families and loved ones. About 6 out of every 10 people with dementia will wander. This can occur at any point, even if it has not happened before. It might not seem likely for older adults who are slow-moving or frail to get too far without anyone noticing but it can happen. Some of them who wander away are never found or even pass away due to exposure or accidents. This is why you have to keep your loved one safe and prevent them from wandering. Read on to learn more about how to prevent older adults with Alzheimer’s disease from wandering.
Install Door And Window Alarms And Locks
You have to make it more difficult for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia to get out of the house to prevent wandering. Make some simple home safety modifications so it is harder for them to open the doors. This includes things such as:
- Installing an extra lock higher up on the door
- Adding childproof doorknob covers makes it harder to open doors
- Using pressure-sensitive alarm marts to alert you
- Installing door and window alarms to alert you when they are opened
- Using an alarm when a specific threshold is crossed
Discover And Solve Triggers For Wandering Behavior
Try to identify the causes for the wandering behavior. Take note of when it happens and if there was anything triggering that. Over time, you might find that they wander around at the same time or if they are hungry or bored. If wandering is caused by boredom, look for meaningful activities to keep them occupied and engaged. Or get them a snack before that time of the day hits. If they are looking for a lost item or person, think creatively to assure them that everything is okay. You can tell them that the lost item is in a safe place with you. Or tell them that the person they are looking for is not there at the moment and they will be there to visit them another time. Encourage them to tell you about what helps to distract them, calm them down and reduce the urge to wander.
Have Them Wear A GPS Device
It might be safer if your loved one wears a GPS tracking device all the time so they won’t end up lost even if they wander. A wearable GPS device like a wristband will send out tracking signals so you can find them.
Experience Discovery Village At Tampa Palms
Discovery Village At Tampa Palms is a top-notch retirement community that raises the quality of senior living. We provide residents with three lifestyle option: independent living, assisted living, and memory care. This is where they can live the carefree and fulfilling lifestyle that they have always wanted. Our committed team is here to meet all of their needs. Feel free to contact us for more information!
