Why do people with dementia wander, and how do I keep my parent safe?
People with dementia may wander because they no longer recognize familiar places or feel lost. Six in 10 people living with dementia will wander at least once, so it helps to plan ahead.
Watch for early signs, such as pacing, trying to go home when already home or coming back late from a walk.
Steps to keep your parent safe
- Put deadbolts high or low on outside doors, where they are hard to see.
- Add door chimes or a monitor that alerts you when a door opens.
- Look into a wandering response service, and keep a recent photo handy.
Never lock your parent inside the home. If your parent goes missing, start searching right away, including nearby ponds and brush. If you do not find them within 15 minutes, call 911 and say they have dementia. See more ideas on our home safety topic page.
Sources
This answer is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules can vary by state.
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