Safe wandering

There are a few behaviors associated with dementia and Alzheimers that can be troubling for caregivers. Wandering is common to people who suffer from these diseases as changes are happening in the brain.

Determining the triggers of wandering can help alleviate any anxiety. Sometimes a wandering loved one will appear to be searching for something familiar and reassuring. They could be looking for a washroom or place to lay down or a place that is recognizable. Those who wander can also have no focus. Perhaps they are bored, or experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

Sometimes sleep has been disturbed and they mix night and day. A condition called sundowning is a change in moods and increased agitation begins in the afternoon and into the evening. This could also contribute to wandering.

Old habits and routines may reappear. As their reality potentially goes backward in time, they may feel the need to get ready for work or pick up the children or find a parent they forgot has died.

To assist those who wander, eliminate possible physical issues such as discomfort or pain. Reassurance and calming music may help. Familiar household tasks like folding laundry or getting out for an accompanied walk will provide distraction and exercise.

Caring for a wandering person, whether at home or in a more institutional setting can be quite difficult and quite worrisome. It is also potentially very dangerous. Confused people are vulnerable. They can go missing regardless of the degree of confusion. A trip to the store or post office might easily cause disorientation.

Safety is paramount. With dementia, what works one day may not work the next.

Should your loved one go missing, the first thing you must do is try to remain calm.

Begin your search in the immediate are and places that are familiar to the wanderer. Look to see if the car keys and shoes are gone. Call the police.

The Alzheimer Society has a program called Safely Home. It is designed to assist people with dementia who could potentially get lost. Registrants and families receive an identification bracelet, information booklets and identification cards to assist police and others who might find your missing loved one. It also provides police with immediate information such as a current picture, medical and contact information to ensure safe return of your loved one.

Should you know of someone in our area who could potentially be at risk and benefit from the program, please contact the police detachment at (902)245-2579 to have their profile immediately included on our system. Do not wait until it is too late.

For more information regarding the Safely Home program, please call me at the RCMP detachment and look forward to a fall presentation from the Alzheimer Society.