Notes

Dementia Wandering
Dementia wandering is one of the most common and dangerous behaviors associated with dementia. It can be a real hazard for seniors and caregivers alike.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of wandering. By following a few simple guidelines, you can keep your loved one safe and out of harm’s way.
Medications

Many people with dementia take medications to control depression, anxiety, agitation, and other symptoms. However, some of these drugs can cause confusion or delusions that can drive wandering.

Delusions of paranoia, including the belief that someone has invaded the home or stolen personal possessions, are among the most common and disabling behavioral manifestations of dementia.

For these reasons, it’s essential to monitor any agitation or challenging behavior that may be linked to your loved one’s medication. If this happens often, it’s reasonable to consider a change of medication.

The best way to do this is to work closely with a doctor who understands the effects of dementia and a social worker or geriatric care manager who can help you understand the impact of these medications on your family member’s dementia.

It’s also a good idea to review your loved one’s medication schedule to see if anything is causing agitation or delusions, especially if you notice that they’re not responding well to the current medications. If you do decide to make a change, be sure to keep a list of all the medication your loved one is taking.
Unsafe Environments

Many people with dementia wander because of their confusion, restlessness, or anxiety. They may also be looking for something, such as their spouse, a favorite restaurant, or another place they used to frequent.

Research shows that most ambulatory older adults with dementia wander at some time, whether they are in their homes or in a long-term care facility (Silverstein, Flaherty, & Salmons Tobin, 2006). They are more likely to wander when their environment is new and unfamiliar.

Dementia GPS Tracker The best way to minimize wandering is to identify the times of day when your loved one with dementia tends to wander and plan activities to keep them engaged. This will help reduce wandering and anxiety levels.

In addition, it’s important to make sure your loved one’s basic needs are met regularly and safely. This includes ensuring they are hydrated and eating enough. dementia wandering at night It’s also a good idea to provide constant supervision and check for changes in their environment.
Fears

Wandering is a serious concern for caregivers and family members of people living with dementia. The behavior can be a result of confusion, fear or frustration.

Many people with dementia believe they are wandering away from something or someone to find comfort or safety. They may want to go away from loud, crowded or unfamiliar surroundings, or because they are avoiding something that is bothering them or making them uncomfortable.

Caregivers need to be vigilant about the person with dementia's safety and ensure that their home is safe. For example, keep keys out of sight and ensure that the door locks are above eye level or concealed by curtains or other decor.

It is also important to take precautions against disaster scenarios, such as a lightning strike or a power outage. This includes ensuring that the individual with dementia has a plan for their safety and making sure they have emergency equipment and supplies.
Disorientation

Disorientation is an unpleasant feeling of confusion that can interfere with a person's ability to know their location, identity, or time. It can occur due to medical problems, certain drugs, or a psychological disorder.

People with dementia often suffer from disorientation because of memory loss, visual-spatial problems and mobility issues. They may get lost in a familiar setting or fail to turn when they should, forget the route they've taken, or find themselves in an unfamiliar situation.

A common reason for wandering is the desire to leave their current environment and seek a more familiar one. They might try to go home, to a familiar grocery store, or to visit a friend.
Here's my website: https://dementiadevices.com/wandering/