The following caregiver tips can provide help for those who WANDER…

1. Make time for regular exercise and activities that exercise the mind & body. Moving the body, walking and mental activities will help to minimize restlessness. MindCare offers a broad selection of activities for senior and for those with all stages and types of dementia. Find dementia activities HERE

2. Consider installing new keyed locks. Locks should be positioned high or low on the door as those with dementia tend not to look beyond eye level. Keep fire and safety concerns in mind for all family members. Locks must be accessible to others and not take more than a few seconds to open. Be sure to teach children how to operate any wandering prevention locks installed throughout the home. Shop for our door locks for dementia HERE

3. Use a barrier like a curtain or sign to mask door to dangerous areas or to the outside. Our “stop” sign or “do not enter” signs have been found to be the most effective. Find our wandering prevention signs HERE

4. Consider installing a home monitoring / security system designed to keep watch over someone with dementia. MindCare offers door alarms that help keep exit doors monitored. Find our door alarms HERE

5. Conceal essential, personal items such as person’s coat, purse or glasses. Some of those with dementia will not go outside without certain belongings. GPS tracking watches with locking wristbands can also be worn. A tracking watch using global positioning systems (GPS) or cellular technology to track a person’s whereabouts if a wandering event occurs has been proven time and time again. Find our selection of Wandering Prevention GPS Watches HERE

6. Wearing an ID bracelet and sewing ID labels in the clothes of dementia patients can also help. Have a current photo available should a missing person’s report need to be made. Consider leaving a copy on file at the police department or register the person with the Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return program or other emergency tracking service.

7. Tell neighbors about any wandering behavior and make sure they have your phone number… just in case.