For over 700,000 people in California living with Alzheimer’s disease, wandering is a very common symptom that can be dangerous — even life-threatening — and the stress of this risk weighs heavily on caregivers and family.
It is estimated that 60% of people with dementia will wander and become lost at some point, and many do so repeatedly. If not found within 24 hours, up to half of wandering individuals will suffer serious injury or death.
There are several warning signs that lead to wandering, including forgetting how to get to familiar places or talking about fulfilling former obligations, such as going to work and wanting to ‘go home’ even when at home.
“Individuals who wander often have a specific intention,” said Kathryn Westland, Director of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association California Central Coast Chapter. “They may have a personal need such as going to the bathroom. But if they become disoriented, even in a familiar place, this simple task can become a challenge and may prompt them to leave the house.”
While preventative measures cannot guarantee that a person living with dementia won’t wander, there are certain tips to help reduce the risk of wandering.
Identify the time of day the person is most likely to wander. Plan things to do during this time, including exercise, to help reduce anxiety and restlessness.
Ensure all basic needs are met, including toileting, nutrition and hydration.
Create a daily plan and involve the person in daily activities and chores.
Consider using a GPS device, a tracking app or other technology if the person is still safely driving,or remove access to any car keys if the person is no longer driving.
Avoid busy places like shopping malls and other busy areas, which can be confusing and cause disorientation.
Assess the person’s response to new surroundings and do not leave them, providing reassurance if they feel lost or abandoned.
If a family member does wander and get lost, begin your search immediately. Start by searching the immediate vicinity, including “less-traveled” areas in your home. Outside the home, search the yard and nearby surroundings. Most wanderers are found within a half mile of their homes or starting location.
If, after 15 minutes, the person is not located, call 911 to file a missing person’s report. California has implemented a Silver Alert, which is activated when an elderly, developmentally, or cognitively-impaired person has gone missing and is determined to be at-risk.
For more information and free support services, visit the Alzheimer’s Association online at alz.org/cacentral. Their Ventura office is located at 2580 E Main Street #201, and their 24/7 Helpline is 800.272.3900 for around-the-clock support and information in English and Spanish.
