Preventing Dementia-Related Wandering

Wandering off is a constant problem for people with dementia, and the Alzheimer's Association, Central New York Chapter says this is more likely during warm weather seasons, when "we're more apt to open doors for fresh air or be outside, which provides a greater opportunity for someone to wander away from safety." The Alzheimer's Association suggests wandering-preventive steps in Syracuse.com . These steps include having a routine for daily activities; noting the most likely times of day that wandering may occur, and planning activities for those times; reassuring the person with dementia if he or she feels lost, abandoned, or disoriented, using communication focused on exploration and validation; guaranteeing all basic needs are provided for; avoiding busy places that are confusing and can cause disorientation; and placing locks out of the line of sight. Other recommendations include employing devices that signal when a door or window is opened, and supplying supervision. Access to car keys also should be removed if the person with dementia is no longer driving.