Wandering: Alzheimer's & Dementia Safety Plan

Wandering is a common and serious behavior associated with dementia.

An estimated six out of ten people with dementia will wander at least once.

This behavior can be life-threatening which is why a comprehensive safety plan is vital.

If you or a family member is dealing with the challenges of dementia, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Omar Board Certified Family Physician in St Augustine,

to discuss a personalized safety plan with us. Call our office at 904-342-8351.

Who is at Risk for Wandering?

Everyone living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is at risk for wandering. It’s a direct result of changes in the brain that affect a person's ability to recognize familiar places and faces. Wandering is a symptom of the disease, not a deliberate act of defiance.

A person may wander because they are feeling restless, agitated, or anxious, or are trying to fulfill a past obligation, like going to work. They might also be searching for a place they feel is "home," even when they are already there.

Common signs a person may be at risk of wandering include:

• Returning from a regular walk or drive later than usual.

• Forgetting how to get to familiar places.

• Becoming restless, pacing, or making repetitive movements.

• Having difficulty locating familiar places, such as the bathroom or bedroom.

• Asking the whereabouts of past friends and family.

• Acting as if doing a hobby or chore, but nothing gets done.

• Appearing lost in a new or changed environment.

• Becoming nervous or anxious in crowded areas.

Proactive Prevention

The best way to manage wandering is to take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place. This involves creating a safe environment and a stable routine.

• Create a Structured Routine:

  • Establishing a predictable daily schedule can help reduce anxiety and restlessness.

  • Plan meaningful activities to occupy your loved one's time.

  • This is especially important during periods when they are most likely to wander, such as late in the afternoon, a phenomenon known as "sundowning".

• Safety-Proof the Home:

  • We recommend "childproofing" the environment to deter wandering.

  • This includes placing deadbolt locks high or low on exterior doors, out of the line of sight.

  • You can also disguise doors by painting them the same color as the walls or covering them with a curtain or screen.

  • Consider installing alarms or warning bells on doors and windows that will alert you when they are opened.

  • A pressure-sensitive mat can be placed in front of a door or bedside to alert you to movement.

• Remove Triggers:

  • Store items that might signal a departure, such as coats, hats, pocketbooks, keys, and wallets.

  • A person with dementia may attempt to leave if they see these items.

  • If your loved one is still driving, it is critical to remove access to the car keys.

  • If you need help with this delicate conversation, we are here to support you.

  • Please  schedule an appointment with Dr. Omar to discuss strategies for handling this.

What to Do If Wandering Occurs

Even with the best precautions, wandering can still happen. Having an immediate action plan is crucial.

• Start the Search Immediately:

  • Time is of the essence.

  • Begin your search in the surrounding vicinity.

  • Many individuals who wander are found within 1.5 miles of where they disappeared.

  • Check familiar places and local landmarks like ponds or wooded areas.

• Call 911:

  • If the person is not found within 15 minutes, call 911 immediately to file a missing person's report.

  • Inform the authorities that the person has dementia, as this will activate specialized search protocols.

• Provide Key Information:

  • When you call, be prepared to give a recent, close-up photograph of your loved one.

  • Have a list of places they might go, such as a former job or a past home.

  • Provide a description of what they were wearing.

  • We also advise enrolling your loved one in a wandering response service, which can help first responders locate them quickly.

At Omar Medical primary Care in St Augustine , your loved one's safety is our highest priority. We believe that with the right planning and support, you can navigate this challenge and provide the best possible care. For more information or to discuss your specific situation, schedule an appointment with Dr. Omar, Primary Care Physician here.

At Omar Medical, we want to emphasize that a comprehensive safety plan is vital as dementia progresses, especially when considering the risk of wandering.

For more health tips and insights:

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• Reach our Saint Augustine office directly by calling 904-342-8351

• To see what our community says, visit our Google Business Page

Resources about Alzheimer and Dementia

• Alzheimer's Association: Strategies, tips, and support for wandering and safetyhttps://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering

• National Institute on Aging: Coping with wandering and getting losthttps://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-communication/coping-alzheimers-behaviors-wandering-and

• Caregiver Action Network: Practical advice for wandering prevention and safetyhttps://www.caregiveraction.org/wandering-and-alzheimers-disease