If Your Loved One Wanders, Read This!

Wandering is one of the most dangerous behaviors associated with dementia. When a loved one with dementia wanders, they face serious risks such as injury, getting lost, exposure to harsh weather, or even drowning. Families and caregivers often live with constant worry about their loved one’s safety. Fortunately, there are effective ways to reduce the risk of wandering and quickly locate someone if they do go missing. Programs like Project Lifesaver and MedicAlert provide valuable tools and support to protect adults with dementia.

Caregiver fitting a tracking bracelet on an elderly person’s wrist, demonstrating a safety measure for dementia patients

Why Wandering Happens in Dementia Patients

Wandering can occur for many reasons. People with dementia may feel confused, restless, or anxious. They might try to find a familiar place or person, or simply follow a routine they once had. Sometimes, wandering happens because of unmet needs like hunger, pain, or the need to use the bathroom.

The problem is that wandering can quickly lead to dangerous situations. Dementia patients may not recognize their surroundings, remember how to get home, or respond to help. This makes it critical to have systems in place that prevent wandering or help find someone quickly if they do wander.

The Risks of Wandering

Wandering increases the risk of:

• Injury from falls, traffic accidents, or environmental hazards

• Exposure to extreme temperatures, leading to hypothermia or heatstroke

• Dehydration or starvation if the person is lost for a long time

• Getting lost in unfamiliar places, which can cause panic and confusion

• Legal issues if the person enters private property or restricted areas

  
  

Statistics show that nearly 60% of people with dementia will wander at some point. Of those who wander, about half will become lost. The longer someone is missing, the greater the chance of serious harm or death.

How to Prevent Wandering

Preventing wandering requires a combination of strategies tailored to the individual’s needs and environment. Here are some practical steps families and caregivers can take:

• Create a safe environment by locking doors and windows or using alarms

• Establish routines to reduce anxiety and confusion

• Use visual cues like signs or pictures to help orientation

• Provide meaningful activities to reduce restlessness

• Monitor medication to avoid side effects that increase wandering risk

• Communicate regularly with the person to understand their needs and feelings

  
  

Even with these measures, wandering can still happen. That’s why technology and support programs are essential.

How Project Lifesaver Helps Find Lost Adults

Project Lifesaver is a community-based program designed specifically to locate people with cognitive disorders who wander. It uses a combination of tracking technology and trained search teams to find lost individuals quickly.

How It Works

• The person with dementia wears a small radio transmitter bracelet or anklet.

• If the person wanders and goes missing, caregivers notify the local Project Lifesaver team.

• The team uses specialized tracking equipment to locate the signal from the transmitter.

• Search teams can find the person within minutes, reducing the time they are lost.

  
  

Benefits of Project Lifesaver

• Fast response time: Most rescues happen within 30 minutes.

• Non-invasive technology: The transmitter is lightweight and comfortable.

• Community support: Local law enforcement and volunteers are trained to assist.

• Peace of mind: Families feel more secure knowing help is available.

  
  

Project Lifesaver has helped thousands of families and has a proven track record of saving lives. To enroll a loved one, click here.

MedicAlert Program and Its Role in Dementia Safety

MedicAlert is another valuable program that supports people with dementia and their caregivers. It provides medical ID bracelets or necklaces engraved with important health information and emergency contacts. However, it should be noted this does require a subscription to keep services active.

How MedicAlert Supports Dementia Patients

• The ID alerts first responders and others that the person has dementia.

• It includes emergency contact numbers to notify family or caregivers quickly.

• Some MedicAlert programs offer a Safe Return service that helps locate missing individuals.

• The medical information can guide responders in providing appropriate care.

  
  

Why MedicAlert Matters

• It helps strangers and emergency personnel understand the person’s condition.

• It speeds up communication during emergencies.

• It reduces confusion and delays in care.

• It complements other safety measures like tracking devices.

  
  

Combining Technology and Care for Best Results

No single solution can completely eliminate the risk of wandering. The best approach combines:

• Environmental safety measures at home

• Routine and communication to reduce triggers

• Tracking programs like Project Lifesaver for quick location

• Medical ID services like MedicAlert for emergency support

  
  

Families should work with healthcare providers and local organizations to find the right combination of tools and strategies. For enrollment or to purchase a plan, click here.

What Caregivers Can Do Today

If your loved one has dementia, take these steps now:

• Research if Project Lifesaver is available in your community and enroll.

• Get a MedicAlert ID with Safe Return service for your loved one.

• Review your home for safety risks and make necessary changes.

• Talk to your healthcare provider about managing wandering behaviors.

• Educate family and friends about what to do if your loved one wanders.

  
  

Taking action early can prevent tragedy and provide peace of mind.

---

Pardon our ads, they allow us to keep our site running and keep our helpful content free to access.