October 4, 2024
Suddenly realizing that a senior with Alzheimer’s disease has wandered off can be a terrifying feeling for family caregivers. Wandering is common, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less concerning. Family caregivers often experience a lot of anxiety about wandering because of the safety risks involved. Addressing wandering is something that Alzheimer’s care providers can help family caregivers manage.
Wandering involves a person with Alzheimer’s disease moving around either aimlessly or with a specific goal in mind. The big problem is that because of Alzheimer’s disease, the person tends to become lost or disoriented. This is something that seniors might seem to suddenly start doing or it can be a repetitive, predictable behavior. Wandering tends to become worse as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease may wander for a variety of different reasons. The most common reason is that they become confused and uncertain about time, place, and identity. They may believe they need to go somewhere specific, often because of a memory from long ago. They could be seeking something or someone that they remember, for instance. Seniors can also wander because they’re anxious and trying to make sense of what’s happening around them. If they’re bored or under-stimulated, wandering may be more of a concern. Finally, seniors with Alzheimer’s disease may wander because they have a physical need, like hunger, thirst, or to use the bathroom.
Modifying the home environment can be a huge help when it comes to helping seniors stop wandering. Alzheimer’s care providers can help families notice areas of concern, like doors or gates that need to be secured to prevent wandering. Caregivers can also help to remove clutter and clear pathways, reducing the risk of tripping and falling.
Solid daily routines help seniors with Alzheimer’s know what to expect. Even if they don’t seem to understand what is happening, they do better with specific routines. The predictability offers a sense of security, which reduces confusion. Structured routines also help reduce restlessness, especially when home care providers include engaging activities that keep seniors’ brains active.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it becomes more important for seniors to have supervision. Alzheimer’s care providers understand how the illness affects seniors’ brains and can help them to have the companionship and support they need to feel more secure. Caregivers can spot possible causes of wandering quickly and help family caregivers learn what to do to better manage the issue.
Most wandering episodes can be managed with the help of Alzheimer’s care providers. But it might be necessary at some point to get professional help with wandering. If wandering episodes are becoming more frequent or seniors are experiencing bigger safety issues, talking to doctors can help to narrow down solutions.
