Preventing dementia-related wandering

Alzheimer; News from the web:

The Alzheimer’s Association suggests these steps to help prevent wandering:

Have a routine for daily activities.

Identify the most likely times of day that wandering may occur. Plan activities at that time. Activities and exercise can reduce anxiety, agitation and restlessness.

Reassure the person if he or she feels lost, abandoned or disoriented. If the person with dementia wants to leave to “go home” or “go to work,” use communication focused on exploration and validation. Refrain from correcting the person. For example, “We are staying here tonight. We are safe and I’ll be with you. We can go home in the morning after a good night’s rest.”

Ensure all basic needs are met. Has the person gone to the bathroom? Is he or she thirsty or hungry?

Avoid busy places that are confusing and can cause disorientation.

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