Wandering Prevention Tips for Keeping Seniors with Dementia Safe

As people develop dementia or Alzheimer's disease, they lose their ability to recall a memory or to concentrate on specific details. As a result, they may forget where they are in relation to other locations, which is essential in maintaining a sense of direction. A senior with dementia who wanders because of these changes in cognitive functioning faces a risk of becoming injured or lost. However, we have compiled some steps you can take to help keep your loved one safe.

Understand the Signs

It's common for family members to dismiss the mumbling or ranting of a senior loved one as simply that, harmless mumbles, but that's often a sign that they're about to start wandering. In particular, pay attention to comments that the individual wants to go home even though they are at home. Alternatively, they may talk about being late for work or school. They may also begin pacing about the home. When out in public, watch for signs of them becoming disoriented in familiar surroundings. Showing nervous behavior indicates that they may be getting ready to wander off.

Increased Supervision Is Necessary

In the beginning stages, it may not be necessary to provide strict wandering prevention for seniors with dementia. However, as the dementia worsens, seniors will wander more frequently and without warning, which means they will need more constant supervision. Since you can't watch them around the clock, consider the possibility of hiring an in-home care aide to look after your senior loved one. A professional aide will make sure your senior parent is practicing good hygiene, taking medications, and eating their meals—while also making sure they're not wandering far from home.

Conceal Doors

In addition to keeping doors locked, you may also take steps to conceal them or make them harder to distinguish from the walls in the room. Some families use matching wallpaper to hide the door from a senior with dementia. Curtains can also be used to hide entryways and exits as a means of wandering prevention for seniors with dementia. Signs that designate a door as an emergency exit have also been effective in stopping seniors from wandering.

Hide Cues to Leave

A senior with dementia might view subtle things as an indication that they're supposed to go someplace else. For example, leaving car keys out in the open may make them think about taking the car for a drive. Similarly, keeping a coat rack next to the door can also prompt a senior with dementia to wander. Try to eliminate any other cues that might prompt your senior loved one to think they're supposed to leave to go somewhere.

Keep Your Senior Loved One Engaged

Wandering prevention for seniors with dementia also involves taking a more proactive approach by keeping the senior occupied. Plan structured activities for the senior to prevent their thoughts from becoming disoriented. You can ask them to help you prepare dinner or perform other household tasks. Playing board games with your senior parent is also helpful in reducing the risks of wandering while providing the mental stimulation necessary to slow cognitive decline. Additionally, keeping your senior loved one occupied with structured activities will help you to keep a closer eye on what they are doing throughout the day.

If your senior loved one frequently wanders as the result of dementia, a home care senior companion can help you provide greater supervision and care for them. At Visiting Angels our comprehensive home care is customized for seniors based on their individual needs and preferences. Our dedicated and reliable caregivers have helped thousands of older adults live happily and safely in the comforts of home while providing their families with peace of mind. If you have a loved one who needs personalized in-home care, contact us today.