Wandering is one of the most common problems that people with dementia face. It’s estimated that as many as half of all individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia will wander away from home and may not even realize they are doing so. Wandering can be incredibly dangerous, placing them at risk for accidents or even death. However, it’s possible to prevent this behavior by creating a safe space in memory care facilities in Terrytown, LA, and using technology such as scent tags and pendants to track residents when they are out in public places alone without supervision.
Individuals with Alzheimer’s may wander because they are searching for something they have lost, trying to return home, and/or looking for someone they know. Wandering can lead to injuries and serious health problems such as dehydration, falls, hypothermia, and heat stroke if not prevented by caregivers or family members in a timely manner.
Wandering behaviors can lead to injury if the person is not supervised correctly. In addition, wandering may lead a resident out of their comfort zone and cause them distress if they do not recognize where they are or who is around them. This can cause problems for residents and staff members because it requires extra time from both parties’ schedules that could be better spent elsewhere.
Accordingly, it is important for those who live with individuals who wander to take precautions against this dangerous behavior by creating a safe environment where wandering cannot occur at all times.
Do You Know The Signs Of Wandering?
Wandering behavior is defined as when a person with dementia leaves their current location without permission or explanation. Wandering can be dangerous to the individual and others, so it’s important to understand the signs of wandering in your loved one.
- Wandering occurs most often at night and early morning hours when people are more likely to be asleep or half awake.
- Wandering is often associated with stress and anxiety from an unfamiliar place or situation (like a memory care community). It may also be caused by increased confusion about where they are, who they’re with, and why they’re there in the first place!
- They may be disoriented, acting confused, or asking for familiar places and people.
- They may exhibit unusual behavior, such as pacing or talking to themselves. This can signify that they’re trying to find their way out of the facility and back home.
- They might not recognize or remember things like their own name, where they live, or who their family members are (even if they were just told). This can happen because of memory lossassociated with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Here are some tips on how memory care facilities in Terrytown, LA, can prevent this issue from occurring at all:
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Create A S Safe, Home-Like Environment
The first step to preventing wandering behaviors is creating a safe, home-like environment. Memory Care community staff will ensure your loved one has everything they need at their fingertips. They’ll also encourage them to get involved in activities they enjoy and can participate in independently, like reading books or playing games with others living there.
For example, if someone has dementia and wanders because they’re trying to find something (like their keys), then it’s important for team members at a Memory Care community ensure that there are no obvious distractions around the house-no piles of clutter or loose items lying around on tables/cabinets where someone could trip over them and hurt themselves while looking for what they’re missing!
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Educate All Caregivers
It’s important to educate all caregivers on the signs of wandering and how to prevent it. Even if your loved one is in a senior-friendly independent living community, someone may come into their room and not know about the dangers of wandering. This includes team members who work in the dining room, activity room, or nursing station. It also includes volunteers who may come into contact with residents during activities outside of their regular schedule.
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Dementia Advocacy
Dementia advocacy is an important part of dementia care. It’s the process of helping people with dementia make decisions and communicate their needs, wants, and preferences to others. This can include anything from helping them shop for groceries or dress in the morning to discussing medical treatments in detail so that they understand what is going on with their bodies.
In addition to providing patients with information about their condition, Memory Care communities can also help caregivers create an environment where wandering behaviors are less likely to occur by giving residents more freedom within their surroundings-such as allowing them access to outdoor spaces or taking them on walks through town-and creating opportunities for socialization among other residents who may share similar interests or experiences (like going out for coffee).
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Personalized Care
Another way to help prevent wandering is by providing personalized care. When a loved one can be remembered and treated as an individual, it’s easier for them to feel safe and secure in their home. Memory Care communities work hard to create a comfortable environment where residents can enjoy the activities they love, whether watching TV or playing games with friends. In addition to creating an environment where residents feel welcome and at ease, these communities offer specialized services like physical therapy programs explicitly tailored toward those with cognitive impairments.
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Scent Tags
Scent tags are an easy way for caregivers to identify and track residents. They can be used with other systems, such as RFID bracelets or bed sensors, to ensure that the resident is always accounted for. The scents are unique to each individual and can be worn on a necklace or bracelet, so that team members know who they’re looking for when they enter a room.
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Wandering Alerts
Wandering alerts are used by Memory Care communities to help prevent wandering behaviors. They are used with monitoring systems and are triggered when patients leave their room or wander into a restricted area. The alert system can then notify caregivers who will go out looking for the person and ensure they are safe and inform other residents that someone has left their room.
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Provide Plenty Of Activities
Memory Care communities provide more than just a place to sleep and eat. They also offer activities that help residents stay engaged and active, which can prevent wandering behaviors. These activities may include:
- Special events like art classes or trips to the park
- Exercise programs like walking groups or chair aerobics classes
- Social gatherings like coffee hours where residents can get together with other people who share similar interests
Conclusion
Wandering is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately. It’s important for caregivers to educate themselves on the signs of wandering and take measures to keep their residents safe.