Wandering and Dementia: Prevention and Safety 

People with dementia may wander, even in familiar surroundings. Planning ahead can help keep them safe. 

Remember one of the golden principles of dementia care: all behaviors tend to have a root in feeling. So, even as we discuss the practical measures you can take to reduce the risks of wandering, remember that this symptom is often a method of communication for a person with dementia.

They may not be able to articulate the reason why they wander. In these situations, you must become a detective.

Addressing the underlying fear, anxiety, or need is often the best way to prevent wandering in the long run. Neverthless, here are practical measures to take to reduce the risks associated with wandering.

Prepare Before it Happens

• Label clothing with your name and phone number. 
• Have them wear a medical ID bracelet. 
• Consider a GPS tracking watch. 
• Enroll in MedicAlert + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return®. 
• Let neighbors and local police know your loved one may wander. 
• Keep a worn, unwashed item of clothing for scent tracking. 
• Keep recent photos in case a search is needed. 

Reduce the Risk 

• Provide engaging activities throughout the day. 
• Lock doors or add locks outside their line of sight.* 
• Use doorknob covers that rotate freely.* 
• Add STOP or DO NOT ENTER signs on exit doors. 
• Use curtains, posters, or visual barriers on doors to reduce exit attempts. 
• Install window stops to prevent full opening. 
• Add door alarms or chimes. 
• Secure yards with fencing and locked gates. 
• Store shoes, keys, and coats out of sight to reduce visual cues to leave. 
• Never leave someone with a history of wandering alone. 

*Only use these tools when a caregiver is present, as they can slow emergency exits.

Top Tip: Taking the time to notify local law enforcement about your loved one’s condition may seem like overkill, but it can make a big difference in an emergency. If law enforcement encounters your loved one outside while wandering, they will be able to cross-reference against their list of known individuals with memory loss. They can act accordingly and with compassion to get them back to where they need to be.

FAQs

Why do people with dementia wander?

They may be trying to find something, relive a routine, or act on confusion or anxiety.

What’s the first thing to do if my loved one goes missing?

Call 911 and explain the situation. Inform them that your loved one has dementia and may not respond normally.

Can I prevent wandering completely?

Not always, but preparation reduces the risk and improves the chances of a safe return.