Some Tips for Dealing with Wandering
A person with Alzheimer's disease may become confused and wander away from home or his or her loved ones.
Here are some steps you can take to keep your loved one safe and ensure a safe return if he or she does wander:
In your home:
• Keep doors to the outside locked. Consider a keyed deadbolt or an extra lock up high or down low on the door. If the person can open a lock because it is familiar, a new latch or lock may help. • Put away or block anything that could cause danger. For instance, if you have a swimming pool, make sure that it is surrounded by a fence that is locked at all times.
On your loved one:
• Have your loved one wear an identification or medical bracelet. If he or she gets lost and cannot communicate, the bracelet will alert others to his or her identity and medical condition.
In a safe, easy to reach place:
• Keep a recent photograph or videotape of your loved one. If he or she becomes lost, this will help you to give a clear description to the police. • Sign up your loved one with Safe Return, a service of the Alzheimer's Association that helps to find Alzheimer's patients who become lost. Keep the phone number for Safe Return in a spot where you can find it quickly if you need to.
