Caregiver Topic: Wandering

What is "wandering"?

Wandering is a term that refers to a constellation of behaviors often associated with middle-stage dementia. Essentially, it is goal-directed behavior around leaving a place to go to another. Often, the wanderer will be certain that they must be somewhere, such as at work or to meet an obligation for a child or other loved one, or express a desire to go "home," even though they may already be at home.

Causes of wandering

Wandering is a complicated behavioral challenge often associated with dementia and has no one specific etiology. However, several factors can contribute to it, such as changes in familiar routines and caregivers; a lack of structured activities during certain times of day; being in an unfamiliar environment or searching for familiar people or things; seeking ways to meet needs such as hunger, socialization, or activity; disruptions in the sleep/wake cycle; and the presence of sundowning symptoms. Please see the previous blog post for information about sundowning.

I am concerned about my loved one wandering. What should I do?

One of the best things you can do is take precautions to prevent wandering. This can include planning structured activities during the day to create a natural sense of routine, including events in the community with another person. Sometimes it can be helpful to put measures in place such as door chimes or cameras to keep more eyes and ears on the situation.

Caring Kind NYC (formerly the Alzheimer's Association, NYC Chapter) offers the Wanderer's Safety Program via its website. Grant funding makes it possible for first-time enrollees in the five boroughs can receive a bracelet or necklace (at no cost!) to wear to help emergency responders such as healthcare workers and police officers identify a person with dementia and connect with emergency contacts. Call 646.744.2900 or visit https://caringkindnyc.org/maws for more details.

How can I find out more about wandering?

From the Alzheimer's Association: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering

From the National Institute of Health: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-communication/wandering-and-alzheimers-disease

Originally published July 2024 in the NYMC newsletter.