Wandering is one of the most challenging and frightening behaviors families face when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies show that up to 60% of people with dementia will wander at some point, making it a critical safety concern for those aging in place. However, with proper preparation and professional Alzheimer’s care support, families can create safer environments and reduce the risks associated with this common symptom.
Understanding the Why Behind Wandering
Before putting safety steps in place, it’s helpful to know why seniors with Alzheimer’s wander. The truth is that it could be a number of things and that each individual’s “reason” is different. For instance, they could be looking for something familiar from their past, be restless or bored, or not know where they are or what time it is.
Ultimately, when seniors wander, it’s often because they have unmet needs, such as hunger, thirst, or the need to go to the bathroom. Caregivers trained in Alzheimer’s care can help families identify what triggers a loved one’s wandering and create a tailored plan to ensure their safety.
Creating a Safe Home Environment
Making physical changes to the home is the first step in stopping seniors from leaving when they shouldn’t. Alzheimer’s care professionals might suggest things like installing locks higher rather than at eye level, so the senior is less likely to notice them, or installing cameras with motion detectors to alert family members when their loved one is trying to leave. They might also suggest “hiding” exits with curtains or painting doors the same color as the walls around them so they don’t stick out.
Eliminating visual sources is also key. For instance, if loved ones leave their coat, shoes, or keys out in the open, the senior might feel like it is time to go outside. Keeping these things out of sight makes them less likely to want to leave. Additionally, it is essential to make sure the home has plenty of light, as darkness tends to increase confusion for many seniors impacted by the disease.
Relying on Technology
Families might also consider using GPS tracking devices in the form of watches, shoe inserts, or pendants, which make it easy to find loved ones quickly if they leave the house. Medical alert systems that can identify wandering are also a good idea, as they let family members know right away if the senior starts moving toward an area where they shouldn’t be.
Trained Alzheimer’s care providers can help family members sort through their options and identify viable alternatives that won’t cause their loved ones distress. This is key, as seniors will be less likely to remove the device if they feel it is comfortable.
Creating Routines
Structured routines that include meal times, bedtime, and a waking-up time make wandering much less likely. In addition, caregivers can suggest other activities to add to the routine, such as taking a morning walk, working out, or playing games. Being active is especially important because it burns off extra energy that could otherwise lead to wandering.
Professional Alzheimer’s care services provide families with much-needed assistance in creating a safe, secure home. By planning ahead, making home improvements, and following any other advice offered by home care, families can help their loved ones age safely and comfortably at home while reducing the risk of wandering.
If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring Alzheimer’s Care in Stockton, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
Sources:
- https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering
- https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-communication/coping-alzheimers-behaviors-wandering-and
- https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/how-to-manage-and-prevent-wandering-in-dementia-patients/
- https://www.alzinfo.org/articles/reduce-risk-wandering/
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