Memory Problems: Wandering

Memory Problems: Wandering

Overview

Wandering can pose a major problem for the caregiver and can be dangerous for a person who has Alzheimer's disease or another dementia.

  • Use medical identification.

    Get a medical ID bracelet for the person so that you can be contacted if he or she wanders away.

  • Try to figure out why the person wanders.

    He or she may be trying to find something specific or looking for a familiar object. A person who wanders at a certain time of day may always have taken a walk or gone to work at that time.

  • Secure the area.

    Lock outside doors, and use alarms and other devices to alert you when the person wanders outdoors or into unsafe areas.

  • Provide a safe place for wandering, such as an enclosed yard or garden.

Credits

Current as of: December 13, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Myron F. Weiner MD - Psychiatry, Neurology