Understanding and managing the behaviors of Alzheimer’s can be like solving a complex puzzle. Among these challenges, wandering is one of the most puzzling – and dangerous – behaviors. It’s not just about physical movement; it's a manifestation of deeper needs and emotions. Understanding the 'why' behind wandering and implementing effective strategies to manage it is crucial.

Understanding Wandering

Wandering, a symptom of Alzheimer’s, is a prevalent issue, affecting up to 60% of people with the disease. It's not just aimless walking but often driven by an underlying purpose that might not be immediately obvious. This could be a response to basic needs or more complex feelings. The risk of the person wandering away and becoming lost makes it even more imperative to find effective ways to manage it.

Tips to Prevent Wandering

• Ensure Basic Needs Are Met: Keep a regular schedule to meet basic needs, such as hunger and thirst. Sometimes, wandering can be a response to physical discomfort, so it's essential to attend to these needs proactively. Schedule an appointment with the person’s doctor to rule out any pain-related causes that may be at play.
• Create a Safe Environment: Secure the home by installing locks on doors and windows that are out of the line of sight. Consider using devices that alert you when a door or window is opened. This prevents the person from leaving unnoticed and gives you time to react if they attempt to wander.
• Use Clear Signage: Use simple signs or labels to help the person navigate the home more easily. Mark important rooms like the bathroom and bedroom with large, easy-to-read signs to help orient them and reduce confusion.
• Engage in Regular Activities: Boredom and anxiety can trigger wandering. Engage the person in activities they enjoy and that are suitable for their current abilities. This can include simple household tasks or puzzles, which help provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
• Reassure and Redirect: If you notice signs of restlessness or confusion, gently reassure them and redirect their attention. This could be as simple as moving to a different room, offering a snack, or starting a conversation about a favorite topic.

The Role of Live-in Care Services

While the above tips are helpful, managing wandering might require additional support, especially as Alzheimer's progresses. This is where live-in care services can be particularly beneficial. Our live-in services include:

• Professional Assistance at Home: Our live-in caregivers reside in the person’s home, offering companionship and significantly reducing the risk of wandering. They are trained to recognize the signs of wandering and can implement interventions quickly and effectively.
• Tailored Care and Supervision: A live-in caregiver will personalize activities and routines to the person’s preferences and abilities, keeping them engaged and less likely to wander. Our caregivers can also adjust the level of supervision as needed, ensuring safety while promoting a sense of independence.
• Peace of Mind for Families: Knowing that a professional is always there can greatly reduce stress and worry. With a live-in caregiver, families can feel confident that the person’s needs are being met immediately and proactively.
• Emergency Preparedness: If the person does wander, our live-in caregivers are prepared to respond quickly. They can ensure that safety measures such as GPS tracking devices and community alert systems, are in place to locate and return the person home safely.

Wandering with Alzheimer’s can be a daunting issue to manage, but with the right strategies and support, it can be effectively handled. By creating a safe environment, engaging in preventive measures, and considering the support of live-in care services, you can protect the person you love while also ensuring they live a life that is as joyful, fulfilling, and dignified as possible.

Reach out to us at 617-376-3711 to learn more about our home care services in Boston, North Shore, South Shore, and throughout Eastern Massachusetts or our live-in care, available throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine.