Why Do People with Dementia Wander? Understanding the Behavior

Dementia statistics can be both horrifying and saddening. Someone develops dementia in the world every three seconds! And 55 million people suffer from it worldwide, with 10 million new cases expected each year, according to Alzheimer's Disease International.

Wandering is a common and often concerning behavior exhibited by individuals with dementia. For caregivers and family members, it can be both distressing and perplexing, leaving them asking, "Why do people with dementia wander?" and "How can we prevent it?"

Understanding the reasons behind wandering is essential for addressing this behavior effectively and compassionately.

This article explores why people with dementia wander, the potential risks involved, and strategies for ensuring safety while maintaining dignity.

Why Do People with Dementia Wander?

Wandering is typically triggered by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Understanding these triggers can help caregivers address the root causes and reduce the frequency of wandering episodes.

1. Memory Loss and Disorientation

Dementia affects the brain's ability to store and retrieve memories.

Individuals may not remember where they are or how to return to a familiar place. Or they may think they are in a different location or time, prompting them to "return" to a previous home or workplace.

2. Unmet Needs

Dementia wandering behavior may be an attempt to fulfill basic needs. They might be hungry, thirsty, or in need of a restroom and searching for food or water, but cannot articulate it.

Feelings of loneliness or isolation might compel them to look for familiar faces or places.

3. Anxiety and Restlessness

Anxiety, frustration, or restlessness can trigger wandering. People with dementia may experience heightened emotions due to confusion or overstimulation and walk as a way to self-soothe or escape.

4. Habitual Patterns

Some people with dementia continue routines they followed in the past.

Someone who worked a 9-to-5 job for decades might leave the house thinking they need to go to their office. Or a parent might wander in search of their "young children," even if those children are now adults.

5. Boredom

Lack of stimulation or meaningful activity can lead to wandering. Movement becomes a way to pass the time or alleviate boredom.

6. Physical Discomfort or Pain

Discomfort from illness, injury, or environmental factors (such as a room being too hot or cold) may prompt someone to move in search of relief. But again, they might not be able to articulate this need to caregivers, confusing everyone around them.

7. Sundowning

Sundowning refers to increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness in the late afternoon or evening. It can exacerbate wandering behavior during those hours.

8. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications used for managing dementia symptoms can cause side effects like restlessness, confusion, or increased energy, potentially contributing to wandering. You can speak to your medical professional about this so they can adjust dosages.

Risks Associated with Wandering

Wandering is not inherently dangerous. But it can lead to potentially life-threatening situations. These include:

1. Getting Lost: Disorientation can prevent someone from finding their way back or seeking help
2. Exposure to Hazards: Wandering into unsafe areas, such as busy streets, construction zones, or bodies of water, poses significant risks
3. Injuries: Falls, accidents, or exposure to harsh weather conditions can result in physical harm
4. Emotional Distress: The individual may feel frightened, overwhelmed, or frustrated when they realize they are lost or cannot find what they are seeking

Preventing Wandering in Elderly with Dementia

While it's not always possible to eliminate wandering entirely, there are steps caregivers can take to reduce its frequency and ensure safety. Here are some of dementia safety tips.

1. Create a Safe Environment

Secure the home. Install locks, alarms, or motion sensors to prevent unsafe exits.

Also, remove hazards. Keep sharp objects, chemicals, and other potential dangers out of reach.

2. Establish a Routine

Consistency can reduce confusion and restlessness. Establish regular times for meals, activities, and sleep to create a sense of stability.

3. Address Unmet Needs

Ensure they have access to food, water, and the bathroom. Spend quality time with the person to reduce feelings of isolation.

4. Encourage Physical Activity

Daily exercise can reduce restlessness and anxiety, decreasing the likelihood of wandering. Activities like short walks or chair exercises are excellent options.

5. Use Technology

Wearable devices can help caregivers locate a wandering individual quickly. Door alarms or home monitoring systems can alert caregivers to movement.

Keep a journal to track when wandering occurs and identify patterns or triggers, such as specific times of day or environments.

6. Redirect Attention

When signs of wandering appear, engage the individual in a calming activity. These could include listening to music, looking at photos, or completing a simple task.

7. Educate and Prepare

Let trusted neighbors know about the situation so they can help if needed. Keep recent photos, medical information, and a list of the individual's favorite places handy in case they get lost.

Maintaining Dignity and Compassion

It's essential to approach wandering behavior with understanding and empathy. People with dementia are not wandering to inconvenience caregivers; they are trying to navigate a world that has become confusing and unfamiliar. Here are some additional senior care strategies.

Avoid Confrontation

Instead of arguing or expressing frustration, use gentle reassurance and distraction techniques to guide them back to safety. Avoid arguing with them.

Support Their Independence

Whenever possible, create opportunities for safe exploration. This might involve setting up a secure outdoor space or accompanying them on walks.

Validate Their Feelings

If they express a desire to "go home" or "find someone," acknowledge their emotions and provide comfort. It doesn't matter if their understanding of reality is not accurate.

When to Seek Professional Help

Now you know the answer to the question," Why do people with dementia wander?"

If wandering becomes unmanageable or poses severe safety risks, consider consulting some professionals, like dementia care specialists. For individuals requiring constant supervision, specialized communities can provide a safe and supportive environment.